II

Aranis is a group of young musicians from Flanders that create beautiful acoustic chamber rock. People familiar with Univers Zero will certainly hear echoes from that band, but the influence is indirect. Their most important influences are other Flemish chamber rock bands such as DAAU and Olla Vogola. On Aranis II, their second album, also the minimalist music of Philip Glass has become a very important part of the sound, especially the melodious music he composed for early 80s albums such as Glassworks and The Photographer.

After the very good debut Aranis sure confirms their qualities. They have concentrated on shorter pieces, a format that seems to suit them very well and makes for a balanced and varied album. In addition, the guitar gets a little more attention and there is a guest role for a bit of sax. The compositions are in any case superb and the inspired interplay of the group never ceases to amaze, being at the same time melodic, smooth, and expressive and powerful.

For me they remain a band that should be heard in a live setting, but if that is not possible than their studio albums will most definitely satisfy fans of chamber rock and harmonious RIO.