THE SUM OF NO EVIL

This latest "TFK" album does not hold any surprise IMO. Same intricate pieces of music as usual, some deadly guitar soli, a jazzy mood at times, some beautiful vocal harmonies of course, an ultra long album (including ultra long songs) like always, peaceful and tranquil vocals.

The central piece of this album is the archetype of all these features. "Love Is The Only Answer" owes them all. I particularly like the emotional guitar play. But to be honest, it is similar to many "TFK" songs. It could have sit on "Back in the World of Adventures" (their first release in 1995) as well.

I like this album more than several other ones from the band ("Flowerpower ", "Space Revolver"). But "The Sum Of No Evil" does not shine by its inventiveness nor creativity. All these songs sounds heavily as déjà vu, although it is a rather pleasant moment. Probably one of the most symphonic album from the band.

This is the side that has always pleased me more with "TFK". While they sound so sweet (almost mellow). Poignant guitar and melancholic vocals : I couldn't ask for more. Especially that the whole of this album shows this tendancy.

Unlike previous albums, there won't be too much waste in here (but this is ONLY a single album, right) ? The opener "One More Time" is probably the song that I like the least. The most beautiful being the short (according "TFK" standards of course) "Trading My Soul".

The title track is the most difficult one to get into. Lots of off-beat rhythm, jazzy mood, typical keys sound like we've heard dozens. Nothing new under the sun. To cut a long story short, it is impossible that this song won't be appealing to any fans of the band (including myself).

On the contrary, the chaotic instrumental "Flight 999" can only please "TFK" maniacs (to which I do not belong). These five minutes are too irritating for my ears.

Fortunately, the closing " Life In Motion" reverts to the best "TFK" I want to know. Fully symphonic (even if this particular one is a total "Yes" rip-off). But we are used to this, aren't we ?

IMO, this "TFK" album is a return to their symphonic roots. And I like it very much. If it were their debut album, I would have rated it substantially higher (nine out of ten probably). But after so many albums of the same, seven out of ten sounds reasonable (or 3.5 stars when this rating will be available). Till then, three stars.

I'm looking forward to go and see them live next week Tuesday (November 13th). Since they will play most of this album, it can only be a good concert.