AUGUST IN THE URALS

One of the nicest surprises of recent years: August in the Urals is symphonic prog, a bit Canterbury, a little jazz, but with a freshness and inventiveness not listened for some time. The compositions are quite long, but flowing nicely thanks to the superb and exciting atmosphere created by Britton keyboards. The musicians are all top-class, but one thing I do not like in this album: the Drums! First, the choice of sound: it seems that drums was recorded during one rehearsal session, with only one microphone and no effect; not that this should be decisive for the quality of compositions, but a better drums sound would help make the atmosphere of this album even more important. Secondly, some kick and snare shots even seem out of time and not synchronized with other instruments: this effect is certainly wanted, given the quality of the musicians, but to my ears it sounds rather unpleasant. In short: Quality of songs: 4,5 stars Inventive: 5 stars Drums: 1,5 stars Average: 3,67