NUMBER SEVEN

PAYING ATTENTION IS PAYING BACK "Dormouse, dormouse,..." this simple yet delightful refrain (out of the closing act of "Number 7"), made of voice, acoustic guitar and back organ, won't leave my brain soon. I eagerly started the first listens to last Phideaux opus in the wrong way: with loudspeakers in open air, thinking that Phideaux would have delivered strong melody lines, with space-filling vibes. The result was really puzzling, it seemed weak. Then I moved to go trough it with headphones or with Mac-connected good loudspeakers, that could allow for better definition of all the musical tapestry contained. And it worked, oh it did! Number 7 is an excellent work of art, with an excellent palette of prog/classic instrumentantion, almost with an unplugged feel. No weak moments, and no standout tracks (take it as a positive comment). After 8-9 listens, it is matter of my surprise to recognize the great flow and transitions of music from one piece to the following. The concept is intriguing becasue it is open, and contains some elements that Phideaux dealt with in Doomsday Afternoon. Musically, like wine tasting, you could hear a bit of Pink Floyd of Atom Heart Mother, of Mike Oldfield, and of others...all blended naturally and with personal talent. I gave Doonsday Afternoon 5 stars, this one would have 4,5, just to differentate a little bit...This band is quickly advancing with their talent. Can I have some more, please?