FEAR & ANXIETY

The debut album by Japanese lady trio seemed like an EP, actually, because by the time it was released the industry got used to have album with longer duration than an LP could handle. If it was 1970, I could understand it because at that time Gentle Giant and some other classic bands made albums with such short duration. Anyway, that's what I think. As far as this band's concern, this could be their first test the water attempt with the kind of music that some people reckoned that the influence of ELP was very dominant. I don't think it applies fully in this debut album. Yes, the band comprised of three members but it does not mean they played something like Emerson Lake and Palmer. In some segments, probably yes but not all. I can see the influence of Rick Wakeman as well.

It's basically Keiko Kumagai who wrote and composed the pieces in the album and she dominates the music in this album while Kyoko Kanazawa (bass) and Akiko Takahashi (drums ) provide rhythm section. The album kicks off with an ambient Dark Clouds followed by an upbeat and a bit complex composition [dgiha:d]. The music is quite entertaining and energetic with Keiko deliver her layers of keyboard sounds nicely. Akiko's drumwork is quite dynamic as well. House of Ben is probably the one that has great influence by ELP especially on music style, even though it's less complex than typical ELP music. The keyboard solo is stunning although it sounds simple. The inventive breaks through piano sounds are also something that create pleasant listening.

Prominence delivers more aggressive music in terms of tempo and inventive keyboard work as well as flows and changes in styles. Again, you can find ELP influence, performed in simpler chords and notes. You may compare this with Jurgen Fritz of Triumvirat as well. The concluding track Fata Morgana part 1 and 2 make the album being closed in uplifting mood especially with excellent keyboard solo. The song starts mellow with piano work followed by interesting solo which brings the music in excellent flow. I can see the contribution of Kyoko in providing bass lines throughout the song.

As a debut album, this is a good album by the band in their attempt to gauge the market. It's recommended for those who enjoy keyboard-based progressive music, without vocal. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW