THE PORTRAIT OF A BOY

Originally released back in 1989, the Russian band HORIZONT's second album "The Portrait of a Boy" had a slightly different approach then their debut album "Summer In Town". This album is more avant-garde and complex than their first album. "The Portrait of a Boy" was originally released in 1989 on the Russian Melodiya label. Now it has been re-released on CD, thanks to the Boheme Music label. - Their music is a delicate mix between art-rock, progressive rock and RIO (Rock In Opposition). The opening 20-minute title track is one of the highlights on this album, although the opening track "Snowballs" from the debut album were slightly better. While "Summer In Town" has more in common with EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER, GENESIS and YES, "The Portrait of a Boy" is closer to KING CRIMSON, PRESENT and the RIO genre. I guess that's why I prefer "Summer In Town" before "The Portrait of a Boy". Don't get me wrong, I really like this album too. But although I love KING CRIMSON, I have always liked E.L.P., GENESIS and YES a lot more, and that comparison goes for the differences between these albums too. This album is more hard-edged, heavier, outrageous and harder to get into than the debut. This is however a really strong album from one of the most interesting bands ever from this corner of the world. Recommended!