DICE

Dice generated a uniquely complex body of work that absorbs influenced by most typical progressive rock bands and respects Swedish spirit trends. We have a mediocre vocal here, certainly not singing false but much below the instrumental prowess of the band players. It reminds me of Andrew Belew or Hatfield & the North a bit. Fortunately, the tracks on the album are still strong and have astonishing complexity mainly when the vocal is switched off.

The interplay between keyboards and guitar is splendid and the guys don't play it safe even though it's 1978. Nowhere else is the Swedish melancholy and Focus/Finch influence more evident than on the romantic instrumental "Annika". Crazy and adventurous playing is heard on "The utopian suntan" which is set into the 20's-30's but ready to escalate into the prog-rock workout at any time. We hear a "Genesis" like mellotron and Crimson-like dynamic fight.

"Venetian Bargain" is a keyboard workout with beautiful drum beat. Piano, synths, clavinet, Hammond and the frequent rhythmic changes make it the most consistent track on the album.

The long epic track is a mash of everything, at times very symphonic, thoughtful. While there are nice developments and gradations, it's a bit tough to get focused for the entire 22 minutes.

This is almost an excellent addition to a prog collection, certainly when looking for hidden champions.