THE BOOK OF HOURS

From the very first sound of rain, until the fading tones of the pipe organ, are we witnessing an undisputed masterpiece. Not since the debut of the swedes in Änglagard, has there been a symphonic prog release of this caliber from the icy north.

Agropelter is a new addition to the current movement that is norwegian progressive music. An unstoppable force these days it seems. The bands inspirational lineage can be traced back to the obvious and usual suspects Genesis, Camel, Kansas and SFF, all wrapped up in a classical presentation. But there are subtle tendencies of jazz and contemporary music here also, which sets this album apart from the rest of todays profressive offerings.

The debut release will also comfort fans of vintage instruments. Mellotron, Hammond, cembalo, Moog synthesizers, and earth shattering bass pedals are plentiful. All guitars, organs, and keyboard leads on the album are administered by Olsen, but the album also features world class efforts by Jonas Reingold on fretless bass and Mattias Olsson knocking out fantastic percussion, vintage synth overdubs, and atmosphere. For the afficionados of the symphony, an ensamble of classical musicians are providing various strings and woodwinds which breathes life and vitality into the compositions.

The use of vintage and familiar analogue instruments and virtuosity, doesn't offer a groundbreaking angle to todays progressive rock climate. But it is the fresh approach, a completely new sound and character along with delightful originality that should make the ears of fellow proggers perk up.

A truly exceptional album that will prove to stand tall amongst the other historic masterpieces of progressive rock. 5/5

Social review comments

Review related links

• Send comments to JeromePat
• Report this review (#3207990)
• Buy AGROPELTER music online with PA partners
• Show all AGROPELTER MP3/Stream
• Go to AGROPELTER page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to The Book of Hours page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for AGROPELTER related discussions