IN A NUTSHELL

This Moscow based band has delivered an interesting workout with ten melodic, song oriented pieces here. Although there is some indie/alternative touch to consider, they overall fit the prog scope, I would say. At least three tracks are crossing the ten minute mark. So IN A NUTSHELL definitely take their time on 'Arrhythmia', variate, let the music evolve and flow, even with some jam appeal here and there. Due to the fine and often multiple guitar work psychedelic, spacey and even post rock elements don't take a backseat.

The opener Performance comes spiked with sensitive guitar plus gripping samples respectively narration and then leads into the powerful Dialoguer - one of the album's core songs. Tamerlan's vocals remind me of Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins), rather whiny here and there. During the last six minutes they are jamming with inspiration which pleases me really. Many songs like Funeral Waltz or Window Cat are provided with this special melancholy reminiscent to Italy's Raven Sad. As for a difference though they mostly switch into a rocking attitude sooner or later.

Keyboards are placed with restraint in general, some electric piano here, a few backing synth patterns there like on Enough which shows some Pink Floyd leanings. Provided with sense of melody, mellowness and melancholy 'Arrhythmia' is an enjoyable album overall - 3.5 stars.