Диапауза / DIAPAUSE

Belarussian band 7 OCEAN started out back in 1989, and in the next few years they recorded four albums worth of material until the band went into hiatus following the death of drummer Igor Mihasev. In 2004 the band was revived again however, and since then they have recorded another four full length albums, of which two are available as digital downloads from the band's website only, and two have been officially released. "Diapause" is the most recent of these, initially made available as a free digital download in 2013 and then subsequently released in physical format by the Russian label MALS Records.

Accessible, melodic progressive rock with plenty of keyboard textures and a distinct emphasis on melodies and harmonies is what 7 Ocean provides on their latest album "Diapause". The conceptual story explored is one that a Russian speaking audience will have to make up their minds about, but if that detail doesn't concern you overly much and you tend to enjoy classic symphonic progressive rock that has at least half a foot well placed inside a 70's context, this is a CD that should be worthwhile to spend some time with.