BRIDGE

This band was such a pleasant surprise for me when I discovered them through their "Fantasma" record. What makes them somewhat unique in the Prog world is that their focus lyrically is on love and relationships, plus they are so darn emotional. I really think singer, lyricist, keyboardist and lead guitarist Oliver Philipps is one of the most talented men i've come across. This particular album "Bridge" continues with the topic of relationships, and the emotion is again pouring out of this record. How does he do that ?

"Bridge Theme" is a 2 minute intro of what sounds like a toy xylophone or something with fragile vocals. What is so cool is that same melody that was just played so simply is repeated powerfully by the whole band. Killer guitar ends it as it blends into "Across The Land" where vocals come in passionately. Piano and vocals are contrasted with the full sound throughout. The guitar starts to rip it up after 2 minutes. "Juliet" features percussion and vocals. The vocals get passionate as themes are repeated. The song ends with a growl. "Travelling Shoes" is an emotional ballad of fragile vocals, acoustic guitar and synths. "Driven" opens with beautiful guitar as vocals and drums arrive. Riffs a minute in as vocals get angry and the sound powerful. It's about the emotions of this man who is trying to forgive his partner. "If You Were Still Mine" in contrast to the last song shows him when he has healed and forgiven, and he relates to her that if she was still his he would ... and lists all the things. So emotional. Unbelieveable. Piano and drums mostly with heartbreaking lyrics. My God. The sound becomes fuller on the chorus. Some power 3 1/2 minutes in with an uplifting guitar solo.

"Ten Years Late" is a bombastic tune. I like the section before 3 minutes where the guitar starts to peel the paint. "Not The Time" opens with piano as fragile vocals and synths join in. Powerful soundscape 2 minutes in. This contrast continues. Incredibly emotional lyrics on this one. Too close to home for me. "Puppet Show" is an instrumental where they seem to be having a lot of fun. These guys are phenomenal players. "Carousel" is heavy with vocals. "Harbour" again has some amazing lyrics that are eerily close to home once again. So emotional especially the chorus. You are awesome Oliver ! "Bridge" opens with piano before guitar joins in. Synths 1 1/2 minutes in as vocals then full sound arrive. Riffs follow. Blistering guitar 4 minutes in. A catchy rhythm before 5 minutes. Piano ends it. Funny, but Oliver writes a small letter to Billy Joel apologizing for borrowing some of his chords in the outro. He says "I was aware of what I was doing, but it just fitted so nicely I couldn't resist." Then he tells him to feel free to borrow something from EVERON's music if he so wishes. Haha.

This album isn't as good as "Fantasma" in my opinion, but it's still worth 4 stars.