A SZAVAKON TÚL

Hidden away in the mythical depths of Transylvania, the prog flame burns bright! This province of Romania has a large Hungarian minority which continues to contribute positively to the cultural heritage of both countries. From Cluj-Napoca (Kolozsvár) , the undeniable talents of Akos Bogáti-Bokor, who is also the talented leader of the off-shoot band Yesterdays , presents this unique debut album that is perhaps a bit more progressive than the main band, moulding all kinds of classic influences from Gentle Giant (the high pitched vocals and the complex polyrhythms ) , Yes (the ethereal guitar and growling bass) and some lovely tinges that recall bands such as Genesis, Dream Theater and The Flower Kings. Akos handles vocals, guitars, bass and assorted keys with great bravado. Ably supported by talented keyboardist Dániel Krivánik and drumster László Zsigó, Tabula Smaragdina are definitely a fine addition to those fans looking for something both off the beaten path and yet with familiar overtones.

The pastoral "Amethyst" is pure acoustic delight, a very brief and gentle introduction into their musical craft, simplicity and beauty abound. There is a strong Anthony Phillips feel that is most appreciated.

"This Side of Words" is something the Swedish Roine Stolt-led band would cough up, a thoroughly stellar romp, where birds sing and a radio dial is twirled until the heady progressive sound shimmers through the mist. Immense trebly bass runs ram the piece forward, ornate piano in tow, mellotron waves and Akos' lovely falsetto vocals. Throw in some "tick-tock" drumming and off we are to the races, with tortuous careening, deft sounds and unexpected twists and turns. A wah-wah lead guitar foray does wonders for the ears. There is this wonderful contrast between brooding and delicate that is most appealing. This is a fantastic piece of music!

"Winter" is closer to DT with its steamroller rhythms, bashing drums and bruising bass clashing with wistful vocals and a sense of freezing calm. What stuns completely is the Howe-like slide guitar explosion that seemingly comes out of nowhere. A four minute + panzer of fire and fury, balanced by some intricate a cappella vocal work a la GG.

The lighter-weight "A Simple Game" is, like the title implies, a rather straightforward ballad that has a sultry vocal line, with choir-like backing vocals, mellotron strings and an extended synth solo that really exudes positive vibes.

"Sundown" is a different kettle of fish altogether, breathy acoustic guitar weaves a glorious tapestry of sounds with the heady mellotron in the background, giving guest female vocalist Karola Antal the platform to swoon and croon. The mood is mystical, atmospheric and highly evocative of the tired sun laying down for a rest.

After such a lovely fade-out, what better than a short nocturnal romp, the humorous and playful "My Electric Cat" complete with Bugs Bunny sample, rollicking instruments and waltzing solos conspiring together in giggling freedom. This silliness segues nicely into the manic and menacing "The Passenger", which contains some rumbling melodies, strange tonal variances in the vocals and a sense of travel and distance. Mellotron again shows its symphonic colours with the bass nice and forward, a tremendous acoustic guitar solo that comes unexpected. This blends into the airy "Light of Dreams" where the sultry saxophone makes a timely appearance, such a brilliant instrument when used properly.

"You Could Be" is back to the heavier side , actually more rock than roll , a distinctively vocal oriented piece that is ably supported by the bold bass and the hefty drums. Akos unleashes a series of searing guitar solos, fuzzy and woozy and then just plain crazy. Surprisingly, the piece is finished off with some lovely gentleness.

The threatening title track "Beyond Words" puts this one to bed quite succinctly, all the ingredients all packed in one with sublime vocals, stunning synth and guitar work, slithering bass and bouncy drums all combining to make this album a pleasant experience.

4 Erdélyi csillagok (Transylvanian stars)