ARKANA TEMPORIS

Arkana Temporis is a interesting recording from French band Neom recorded in 2008 and released by Soleil Zeuhl in 2009. Although they display a strong Magma influence they are not a Magma clone with their own sound and display some Canterbury influences too.

The music on the disc is divided into two Acts, Act I composed of four parts and Act II with one part. The music opens with a quiet atmospheric piece dominated by cymbals, a low growling bass in the backgound, before the guitar, keyboards and drums join in. It has a bit of a Canterbury feel more than Zeuhl at this stage but as the track progresses the Zeuhl influences become more dominant.

Act I, Part 2 is the shortest track at 3:36 minutes (the others range from just under 12 to over 15 minutes). It begins with another gentle introduction, then alternates between intense bass/percussion sections and mellower passages. Vocals are used sparingly as sound effects rather than as lyric based songs, which is true of the vocals throughout the disc.

Act I, Part 3 is the longest track clocking in at 15:12 and displays more of a Magma influence gradually building to a Magma-like crescendo in the final three minutes. There is some fine drumming in this piece.

Act I, Part 4 starts with another mellow introduction followed by intense drumming and growling bass.

Act II, Part 1 also begins with some mellow piano and ethereal female vocals. As the track progresses it is interspersed by short bursts of guitar before thundering bass and drums join in along with some blistering guitar.

I don't know if Neom are still active but it would be a shame if this was their first and last recording.

I have debated about the rating, to give it a 3 star rating seems unfair although it might not be considered an essential part of a prog rock collection it is certainly a 4 star rating for Zeuhl fans. Oh what the hell I am feeling generous today I am going to give it 4 stars