PHOG

French multi-instrumentalist Philippe Ogier (Ph-Og) is a perfect example of a one-man show where the artist, much like a painter, addresses his sonic canvas with enormous patience, fortitude, creativity and attention to detail. Though I possess all his albums, it was long overdue to write a reflective review on the music this man makes seemingly at will . I have read on other platforms that the style is similar to Camel in that it is a rather mellow palette of sounds with little energy. I beg to differ as closer attention would have shed deeper light on the true nature of his craft. Best example is the opening track "Awakening" which is far from any soporific rehashing of Moonmadness or Rain Dances . Second major divergence from the glorious dromedary is the all-instrumental nature of his music. Ogier is a master of the big four: a ripping guitarist, a splendid keyboardist , a hyper active bass player and the drum work is equally impressive. And he proudly displays all these attributes on a bouncy opening salvo that really sets the mood and pattern for the entire album.

"Winter Storm" follows with its frozen white sheen, where ice pellets of e-piano, sheets of Nordic organ and a windy bass announce the entrance of a heated electric guitar blast, reminding one to dress up warm. "Satellite" displays the first slight hint of the Camel style mainly due to the flute intro and the elegant organ that sets up the main melody, though the booming bass is deliciously upfront and centre and the slithering guitar solo just seals the deal. The acoustic guitar section is a welcome addition as it launches the sonic sputnik into an elliptical orbit of sound that is deliriously entertaining. "Altiplano" is exquisitely evocative of the high Andes plateau, a barren rock land that separates Chile and Argentine , a world where lamas conquer the steepest crests with impunity . The soundtrackish theme is appropriately grandiose, discharging cinematographic vistas of intense beauty and unspoiled wilderness.

A gentle respite from all this soaring material is the contemplative piece "In the Distance" where a breezy jazz workout soothes the ears and the soul, like a heart-stopping glance over the horizon , when one hardy trekker has arrived at the peak of a mountain and the eyes take in the conquest's reward. A sensational organ flurry shoves this along , guided by an underpinning bass line that , once again, is not hiding in the background. The highlight reel epic 9 minute + "No Gravity" initially possesses the floating elegance of a musical cloud of complex simplicity, a serene interpretation of a liberated soul but also an extended piece that goes through a series of evolutions that keep the notes vivid and inspired. The piano work is both ornate and majestic, the organ rivalling at each turn for attention, the squirelling bass reminding all who is the boss here and the drums keeping everything in check. When the shivering electric lead kicks in ever so cleverly, sparring with the shimmering synthesizer, expected bliss is achieved. Magnificent slice of Phog prog. The finely chiseled "Summer 22" is a bright sunshine of progressive light , an evocative track that chooses to travel within the arrangement to other sonic horizons , painting music in the air as if held there by gravity alone. Shuffling drums and riveting organ splurges wander into the ether, a delicate guitar slide into the airy expanse guarantees a luxuriant tan that will last for a while.

A 42 minute aural adventure that rewards even more with repeated auditions.

4.5 blue planets

From France is coming multi-instrumentist Philippe Ogier aka Phog name taken of course from first 2 letters from his name, 4 albums in his sleeve so far. Phog offer symphonic prog with some neo prog touches here and there mainly inspired by acts such as Genesis, Camel, Finch and some french bands from '70's mainly Clearlight. Third album named This World... was issued in 2020 and is a continuation of previous two releases maybe even better in parts. The music is most of the time light and calm but has plenty of good moments, dreamy but yet complex and symphonic in instrumental sections. Overall is good but I wish to be little more up tempo , at least in some parts. Ombeline has some vocal parts, pretty decent I must add. Well, I like it, nothing groundbreaking but pleasent most of the time. 3 stars for sure, little know artis in today prog scene. Highlight for me the opening 8 min Awakening, the rest are also ok.