BRUTAL ARCHITECTURE

After ''Earthbound'' the line-up of Rocket Scientists was officially expanded to a trio with Don Schiff now performing as a regular member.With Tony Amato again behind the drum kit the group recorded the sophomore effort ''Brutal architecture'', while an agreement with Kinesis had been obtained and the album was eventually released in 1995 on the US label.

''Earthbound'' showed only traces of Rocket Scientists' talent, who's potential starts to be unleashed on this second work.The style became more complicated with longer and more demanding arrangements, while the retro references are more evident and the respect to the masters of the past is clear throughout the listening.Norlander's shifting keyboards, from dark Mellotrons and nostalgic organs to Electronic-inspired synths and even clavinet, are the main reason for the change, next to the technical delivery of a good rhythm section and the enough room for instrumental exercises.Melodies are not absent either with some nice guitar solos by Mark McCrite, while a more accesible approach is still apparent on several tracks.But even these contain a nice amount of good interplays or more symphonic keyboards.The result is an album close to the likes of GLASS HAMMER, AJALON and AKACIA, having an evident US Prog feeling.Vocals are both sensitive and expressive, similar to the diverse musicianship.Additionally Norlander's piano reveals plenty of Classical orientations, that sound absolutely great next to the melodic Neo/Symphonic Prog of the group, which can get very dramatic at moments, showing a nice composing ability and an even brighter future.

''Brutal architecture'' marks a huge step forward for the US group.The music is still a bit unoriginal, but the change towards more elaborate, retro-inspired and intricate compositions was definitely the right move.Recommended, especially to fans of Neo Prog and 70's Classic Prog.