TABULA RASA

But this work is full of melody, beautiful guitar and sounds very much like the early "Camel" (mainly "Snow Goose" and "Moonmadness"). Some symphonic jazz tints complete the picture during the excellent opener (and probably the best song of the whole) but not only ("Uskollinen").

I miss the fine fluting of their debut though, and the vocal parts are less charming than what they used to be (to say the least). Some might say that this work is at times borderline plagiarism and could almost be considered as a "Camel" one if you would except the vocals (in their native language).

Do take this album for what it is: a romantic and melodic work of symphonic prog with some folk attributes ("Aamukasteen Laiva" or "Rakastaa"). Sit down, relax and enjoy. "Ekkedien Tanssi" is not as good as their debut: some songs towards the end are rather flat: "Kehto", "Babyla Rasa" but the guitar part in the good closing number ("Säästä Mun Pää") is splendid and full of passion.

Both bonus tracks are only valid thanks to the instrumental sections. Three stars.

If you like some Tullian sounds, this effort might well suit your taste. From the wild opener "Latho" to the melodic "Miks' Ette Vastaa Vanhat Puut" your faithfully is charmed. Fine fluting and melodic vocals (although not understandable for my ear but it doesn't matter) are the attractions of this mellow song.

This album is almost all of symphony and beauty. Sweet compositions, delicate keyboards are the union for "Tuho".

The mix of music featured can be rather disturbing: from wild and rocking during "Gryf" to tranquil and peaceful music à la "Fruupp" indeed (as some of my fellow colleagues did mention during their reviews) during most parts.

I quite like this album, not taking it as a masterpiece into account; because there is a flaw like the popish " Tyhja On Taulu"

Within instants, the band can revert to a much more complex, almost Crimsonian sound. Such is the very good " Nyt Maalaan Elamaa". Wild guitar, delicious flute, severe bass and gorgeous keys. Do you need anything else???

Some folkish sounds are also available while the long " Vuorellaistuja" is being played. Again, vocals are quite moving (even if I don't grab a word). And what to say about these magical and very much "Genesis" oriented musical parts! Great moments of music for sure.

Even if the wah wah guitar feature sounds a bit old fashioned, it is always a pleasure to listen to such a good piece of guitar work. And what to tell about the expressive flute part? This song is for sure the absolute highlight from this release.

Four stars for this beautiful and melodic work.

Once met - never forgotten

It's been many years when I listened to this completely, so I may remember it as worse than it actually is, but only for two songs I can now give some praise. 'Aamukasteen laiva' (= Ship of Morning Dew) sounds as fresh as the poetic title. It's the only track where the arrangement is innovative and delighful, and also the minimalistic lyrics - only few lines repeated and varied a little - work well in it. And 'Rakastaa' (= To Love) is a melancholic ballad, nothing special but pleasant. Probably the whole album could serve as sufficient low-key pop for background, but no proggers even in Finland need to know it. A pity...