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Unicorn - After Before CD (album) cover

AFTER BEFORE

Unicorn

 

Neo-Prog

2.55 | 4 ratings

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apps79
Special Collaborator
Honorary Collaborator
3 stars While ''The weirdest of tales'' became a sell-out, Unicorn were put on ice, as Anders Mareby moved to another city and Per Runesson was going to fulfill his military service.After months of inactivity they came back together, but this time without Per, who was dedicated to other commitments.Bass duties were handed to Peter Edwinzon and for the first time Unicorn operated as a trio, recording and releasing their fourth cassette ''After before'' in 1992.

Anyone having listened to Unicorn's first few cassettes will define a certain turn in the sound of the band.Like a musical Benjamin Button they appear to go back in time and, instead becoming heavier and more modern with each release, ''After before'' resembles more than ever to 80's Neo Prog, as performed by the British bands of the time.Do not expect a work of mellow sounds, it's just that Unicorn sound a bit more melodic and less rhythmic on this effort, somewhat losing part of their identity.Acts like JADIS, THIRD QUADRANT and COLTSFOOT are the most appropriate comparisons, Unicorn proposed a highly atmospheric Progressive Rock with a certain lyricism and occasional synth blows over the melodic and slightly distorted guitars.I am a bit dissapointed, seeing them a bit confused on whether to move on or get a bit closer to the retro prog stylings (one track even features some organ parts!), but the material is very good and satisfying with the trademark vocals of Swano and the music being always competent and interesting.The 7-min. long title-track with its half-MARILLION, half-PINK FLOYD influences and the ''The likes of noone'' with its great keyboard sounds is the pair of tracks shining through.

Yet another undergroung goodie by Unicorn.Their most 80's-styled work of all their cassette albums/demos, will be an instant favorite for all those in love with this particular period of Prog music.Recommended.

apps79 | 3/5 |

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