SON

I never heard of this band before, but decided to try it when I saw them in top 2017 albums list. Well, after two listening, I must say they deserve it! They are from Ukraine, and their name means Hug the Rain, and the album name is Dream. Ok, now let's talk about music. I can't really define their style: it's definitely "prog", with all elements of the genre, but it's quite friendly for non-prog listeners. Not because it's simplified, like Anathema, but because on top of well-performed music it is beautiful and melodic. And it is never boring and predictable! A song can start as a heavy metal, and then will morphs into haunting and beautiful acoustic and flute-dominated piece, and then concludes with melodic guitar solo. Arrangement is lush: all traditional rock instruments plus female vocal, plus flute, sax, violin and cello. They sing in Ukrainian, not a widely-spoken language outside the country, so most people will not be able to appreciate their lyrics. But I think it won't prevent prog fans to appreciate this wonderful discovery! We listen and appreciate Rock Progressivo Italiano without understanding their lyrics, right? ;) Actually, I guess Rock Progressivo Italiano would be a closest comparison to how this band sounds! And Ukrainian language is believed to be the most "musical" among Slavic languages, seriously! Excellent musicianship, beautiful melodies, excellent vocals lush arrangement, quality mix and sound, what is not to like?! I rarely give 5 stars, but these guys deserve it! Can stop listening to them!