BRENNENDE DROMMER

Another Norwegian band,this time coming from Stavanger in South Norway.They were formed in late-90's featuring Alta Bye on bass, Rune Forselv on drums, Halvard Jakobsen on lead guitar, Oystein Larsen on keys and Stäle Roar Leirtro on guitar and lead vocals.Their debut from 2001 named ''Brennende Drommer'' was released on Musea Records.

This is a typical example of retro-sounding Scandinavian Prog,mixing elements from Psychedelic Rock and Heavy Prog with some orchestrated symphonic flavor thrown in.Many bands from in and out of Norway come to mind like KERRS PINK, LANDBERK, RADIOMOBEL, HOST, BLACK BONZO and KVAZAR.Very much guitar-driven,the album is characterized by the energy of the lead guitars,often with a definite Scandinavian taste,the strong vocal work and the heavy use of analog keys,mainly organ and mellotron.There are some good breaks throughout,filled with intense guitar solos,and a couple of superb mellotron waves.Vocals are listenable,without being outstanding,sung in Norwegian all the way.Not much of an adventure in here, ''Brennende Drommer'' is rather an accesible album with an Art Rock attitude,based more on its energy and vintage atmosphere than on technique or complexity.

This is far from being a surprising listening,but these guys came up with an interesting reincarnation of the old years.For fans of Scandinavian Prog and old-fashioned Heavy Rock,the album comes strongly recommended.