ALL THE PRETTY DAYS

A lot of inspiration available here. This is a very good new album provided by FREN, a band from Kraków, Poland, constituted around keyboarder Oskar Cenkier. That means six marvelous new compositions are offered by the quartet. The closing symphonic tinged suite Turque hereby is appearing just like a special bonus track, one may say the album's turbo charger, yet an extended affair of nearly 25 minutes playing time. I would insist this is even matured, compared to their debut, that attracted anyhow. 'Where Do You Want Ghosts To Reside' already had reached for a spotlight immediately in 2020, because showcasing a lot of skilful eclectic moments. The songs are (predominantly) instrumental.

In the early stages I really tried to discover the non-instrumental impact, yeah. The mention 'all vocals by Fren' was quite puzzling, seemed to be placed like nothing more than a pun. Okay, nearly. The grand finale of the aforementioned turbo suite then will reveal the secret. Back to the start. The opening song could be intended as a homage to Peter Hammill maybe? VDGG have inspired a lot of bands. This is appointed as a really smooth and tasty entry into the album. Furthermore I'd like to highlight the great guitar solo on Wiosna. Andrew Shamanov's punchy bass convinces on the album's title track. Wonderful keyboard work everywhere you are. After all the pretty days a clever song writing attitude is pointing the way. Close to a masterpiece for now. The album is showcasing some breath-holding suspense in between. 4.5 stars.