SEA VINE

I'm glad to be the first one to write the review of this album. The band should have someone at their side although I'll try to be as much critical as possible. I'm on their side and wishing them all the best for one simple reason - I live quite nearby, in Rumia and they're from Gdansk (which is around 30 km for those living "abroad"). So much for the introduction...

Despite what you can find over the internet that the music is influenced by Tony Banks or Rick Wakeman you'll be rather disappointed if you'd like to hear a copy of the music of those famous guys. The sound of the background layers reminds of Eloy circa about 1980, some other sounds are quite similar to the music of Marek Bilinski from the beginning of 80s. But then the cooperation of the keyboards with the drums is quite similar to American retro duo Zombi, as well as the sound of the equipment used. This gives you the best idea what you can find on the debut album. Of course the combination of all elements is quite unique however is dangerously close to Zombi in general. Sometimes the only thing to tell the difference is Milena's vocal which is used too rarely in my opinion. Of course I know that the convention requires less vocals and much more space for the instrumental parts. But progressive rock is general for breaking all the conventions, isn't it?

The sound is quite good. The idea of improvised music combined with quite nice melodies is also good. What's wrong then? Unfortunately there are couple of things. First of all I cannot feel the band's chemistry in that. It's a project not a band. The music coming from a band should be more organic. Second is what I already mentioned ? almost lack of vocals. The proportions between vocal parts and instrumental parts are not quite well balanced. Also I can hear some mistakes recorded in the vocal parts (Circus). That shouldn't be on the final album. The rest is the matter of individual taste and you have to listen to that to make your own mind. But the general impression is quite positive. Sea Vine have the unique sound, they're quite recognizable which is rather sensational on the first album. I believe that the second one will be better. To be honest I wish them that.

PS. Actual rating should be 3,5. But it's impossible to rate like this here. It's not "Teraz Rock" after all...