SPLEEN AND IDEAL

I must admit that this style of music suits me perfectly. Tons of atmosphere and even the vocals contribute to this often dark ocean of slow moving sounds. I am impressed that "Spleen And Ideal" their second album was released in 1985. I've heard about this Australian band for years, mostly from other bands who say how influencial DEAD CAN DANCE have been to them. Lots of trombone on this one as well.

"De Profundis (Out Of The Depths Of Sorrow)" is powerful with the choir-like intro.The atmosphere just seem to vibrate and dominate as Lisa comes in vocally a minute in almost crying out. Male vocals chant before 3 1/2 minutes. A very epic and dramatic track. "Ascension" opens with trombone and lots of atmosphere. Check out the way the sound builds before 2 minutes when the trombones stop.This is like drowning in a sea of sound. So impressive. "Circumradiant Dawn" opens with sounds that rise and fall as female vocals come in around a minute.

"The Cardinal Sin" is the first track that has a beat. Trombone and male vocals too. Piano after 2 minutes. "Mesmerism" is more uptempo with drums as female vocals join in. Deep sounds 1 1/2 minutes in. Intense track. "Enigma Of The Absolute" opens with relaxed guitar as drums come booming in followed by male vocals. Again so much atmosphere. Cello after 2 minutes. "Advent" is my favourite tune on here. Just a great sound with male vocals. Trombone as usual in this song that I simply get lost in. I really like the lyrics too. "Avatar" is almost as good. Powerful with female vocals. I thought of Anneke when I first heard Lisa sing on this song. How moving is this ? Trombone 3 minutes in. "Indoctrination (A Design For Living)" is led by drums and atmosphere as male vocals join in. This is hypnotic stuff. This album finishes strongly.

I just can't give anything less than 4 stars for this influencial album.