LIBER SECUNDUS

"Liber Secundus" is the pretty second album by Brazilian band Index. Formed by guitarist Jones Junior after his venture in the first Quaterna Requiem line-up, Index creates a solid symphonic style very much in parallel with compatriot acts Tempus Fugit and Dogma, although bearing a stronger sound and developing more robust compositions. While not as accomplished as their follower "Identidade", which would eventually become one of the most beautiful South American prog albums for the year 2005, "Liber Secundus" is also a very effective symphonic effort that should be enjoyed by any serious collector. Main references are classic Camel and Yes, bearing a melodic sensibility closer to the golden era of prog than to neo-prog. The instrumental opener 'Lágrima' starts with a piano solo section - then, when the whoel ensemble joins in, the piano input continues to be the paver of the road. The addition of female chanting in places adds color to the sonic tapestry that is being fluidly laid down. Nine minutes of pure typical symphonic rock splendor. The next two tracks 'Portoes de Gaza' and 'Fim da Floresta' are sung: fortunately, since none of the musicians has a great talent for vocal interventions, the instrumental portions are more central and abundant. These two numbers are less epic but more energetic than the opener, which allows the band to explore their rockier facet with confidence and skill. 'Algemas de Cristal' is a brief classical guitar solo adorned by harmonica: the bucolic ambience is well done, and maybe it wouldn't have mattered if the track had been reasonably longer, but again, things are as they are, aren't they? The last three tracks comprise the album's better half. All three of them retake the splendor of the opener and take it to another level. 'Guernica em Nova York' kicks off with a 'Heart of the Sunrise'-meets- 'Siberian Khatru' motif, in which the guitar and the bass display a joyful duel while the drums and the organ set a solid pace. The sung section slows things down a bit, in a more Camelesque way, but it is not languid at all. Gradually, almost unnoticeably, the motif builds up an energy that ultimately brings the closing reprise of the intro portion. A definite highlight, indeed. 'Instantes' is more focused on the Camel thing, with a vivacious feel that stays consistent all throughout its 8- minute span. Finally, 'Novella', the other highlight, combines the majesty of 'Lágrima' and the epic vibration of 'Guernica': its 13 ¾ minute duration passes by unadverted while the listener allows himself to be transported to the realms of his own spirit. A very proper closure for a very beautiful symphonic prog album from Brazil. Index is a band that we should pay more attention to.