THE GUARDIAN'S OFFICE

Guardian's Office is a new project by Fruitcake drummer/composer Päl Søvik, and sounds as if it should have been released thirty years ago, although there are some modern musical references. This is an album that finds itself deep within the world of Uriah Heep, with the odd modern tinge. Much of this is down to the melodious vocals of Tony Johannessen (who also provides the keyboards) as he does his best to evoke the power and majesty of David Byron. There is a feeling throughout of being transported back in time, and I would defy anyone listening to say that it is from a modern Scandinavian outfit. The line-up is completed by Froydis Maurtvedt (bass) and Morten Eriksen (guitars).

It is an album all about melody and thoughtful tunes, guitar breaks restrained. It is an album that is full of pomp, with bass pedals being used powerfully. It is never rushed and when at times they move away from the Heep sound it is only into an area more normally associated with classic Genesis. It is timeless and sees no point in rushing to get to the end. The length of the album also hearkens back to older times as it is only about forty-five minutes long, yet contains eight songs (Flower Kings please take note ? this is the way to do it!).

Great artwork by Stephen Trodd yet again points back to the golden age of prog, and while this would benefit from being as 12" vinyl release with a gatefold cover that seems to be almost a churlish comment to make. A classic album that I have enjoyed immensely.

Originally appeared in Feedback #73, Jun 03