ART TO THE BLIND

The story of this Swedish act dates back in mid-90's, when bassist Mattias Reinholdsson and multi-instrumentalist Henrik Johansson decided to form their own group.They brought some old bandmates to complete the original line-up: singer Stefan Zell, guitarist/keyboardist Per Broddesson and keyboardist Ulf Nygerds.After the demo "Previously unreleased", recorded in August 97', Nygerds quit and in early 98' Broddesson parted ways for a short time with the group, replaced by Stefan's brother Mikael.In late 98', with Broddesson back in the line-up, Book of Hours released a second demo, "We find your lack of faith disturbing'', the last recording of Stefan Zell with the group.Eventually the official debut ''Art to the blind'' saw the light in May 99' after a contact with Record Heaven.Stefan Zell helped the group, carrying out the vocals as a guest member.

Book of Hours played a Heavy/Psych Progressive Rock with a contemporary sound and a style close to compatriots ANEKDOTEN and LANDBERK, lacking though the instrumental depth of these legends, yet performing some powerful and energetic music all the way.70's Progers TRETTIOARIGA KRIGET might be also a good comparison.''Art to the blind'' is based on the guitar work of Broddesson and Mikael Zell in an extreme degree, offering textures full of passionate grooves, sudden gears, complex moves and heavy riffing, which recall KING CRIMSON.Still there are some nice rockin' solos to offer another different dimension by the duo.Keyboards are used sporadically and the need of a richer sound is evident in the process.When used, they create a very atmospheric mood in the style of the aforementioned Swedish masters and the sound obtains a vintage flavor as a result.The vocals are great: Passionate and expressive with a high amount of energy.Combined with the dynamic rhythm section and the crunchy, intricate guitar exercises, they produce high voltage music for lovers of the maximum of volumes.

Book of Hours' debut is an interesting album for anyone into the heavier side of Progressive Rock music.Not very Scandinavian-sounding as many of their compatriots, but definitely highly energetic and passionate music with a fair dose of complexity in the guitars' section.Recommended.