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Bolus - Watch Your Step CD (album) cover

WATCH YOUR STEP

Bolus

 

Neo-Prog

3.39 | 19 ratings

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Rivertree
Special Collaborator
Honorary Collaborator / Band Submissions
3 stars When I was listening to this album for the first time I couldn't believe that BOLUS are a duo. Okay, ehhh ... the truth is Yes and No - this exclusively seems to apply to their recent studio work. When playing on a stage they are a quartet in fact. However, only multi-instrumentalist Nick Karch and drummer Mat Keselman are named to be responsible for 'Watch Your Step', This album was recorded in 2004 by this group hailing from the Toronto region in Canada ... but they decided to make an update from their debut. It was re-recorded, and at least technically there is nothing to complain.

Day Of Discovery represents an excellent startup. Dynamic, joy of playing, trickiness, there's a lot to mention when thinking of progressive rock terms. A typical neo prog tune as a matter of fact - close to Jadis to give a clue. Nick Karch's voice is not that eclectic but unique in any case, provided with recognition value - a real trademark. Given with a Rush touch Vow is an exceptional exemplar too, alongside with In Conclusion where the lively percussion work convinces especially, a heavily kicking bass drum inclusively.

And then Magistrate makes my day. Great implementation - the intro shows a chime leading into a piano touch - wonderful! The piano lines are simple, highly effective though. Featuring twists and turns this is of a complex nature, grooves a lot, appears accessible anyhow. "I'm falling down ..." - and there's even some chance to sing along. Hell ... if this would continue on that high level.

The other five songs aren't able to move me really, tending towards standard rock they sound too harmless according to my taste. So this leaves me with ambivalent feelings a bit - 'Watch Your Step' is not consistent enough in its entirety when it comes to the compositional aspect. Apart from that - 'Magistrate' for example has climbed up into my IPhone Top Ten in the meanwhile, often heard, I like that one very much. Now this points out my conclusion - give it a try, there's definitely something to explore here.

Rivertree | 3/5 |

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