HDRSF-01 (EP)

My first introduction to Hidria was through this EP which is downloadable from their website: which I discovered by following a link from the Ozric site. I've now purchased the CD since that's what supports more music. Comparisons with Ozrics abound, and rightly so: there's a clear similarity in their music.

Hidira a far from a clone of the Ozrics. They have a fundamentally different vibe which is instantly recognisable. Gnomen is based around ethnic drums and synth. The bass, and this may just be me, reminds me of the original theme tune to Dr Who. Mastronaut has an ambient intro before an Om Riff threatens to take over. This is interesting because the Hidria take on this spacerock anthem remains controlled and subtle. Ozrics take it by the scruff of the neck and Ed Wynne lets fly.

Amos Ame mesmerised me the first time I heard it. A simple folky line on guitar supported by bass and drums and featuring flute (quite Ian Anderson). However, any similarity to Tull is lost in the synth bubbles.

Kafar-I is another simply awesome track. Bass and drums provide a high tempo background over which is overlain by guitar chords that somehow give the impression of slowing the whole feel of the song despite the fast background. A dramatic change to wah-wah backing guitar chords and a clean lead. The whole band engages the higher tempo.

Sindran-Rastafan has a beautiful swirling trippy reggae feel. Unmistakably Hidria. My favourite track.

With hindsight it is often in the first albums that bands produce their most innovative or distinctive works. HDRSF-1 is an insight into the first few years of Hidria Spacefolk. A seperate identity is established (in a genre which is often criticised for being samey). Added to the fact that this is available free, this has to be an essential addition to prog collection. Does that make it a 4.5 stars ? I've found I listen to this EP again and again. It gets the benefit of the doubt from me: 5 stars.