THE SCREAM OF NATURE

A quartet from The Netherlands uses music to express their interpretations of the works of Edvard Munch-- exploring one of the sure-fire domains of the potential of progressive rock: the interpretation of other art forms through music. A little too saccharine and simple for my tastes. Could be the BEACH BOYS 2020 because of the vocals, melodies, and experimental song structures and forms expressed here.

1. "Frieze" (2:50) synth waves/wind with percussion and voices. Reminds me of the opening of MOON SAFARI's highly acclaimed 2008 album, Blomljud or something by New Jersey's ADVENT. (4.25/5)

2. "Skrik" (3:05) more shoreline water sounds with electric keyboards and electronic percussion open this one for 50 seconds before the band bursts forth with a two chord foundation over which Robin Boer displays his prowess on a Moog-like synth. Still more introductory and cinematic, not a fully formed song. (8/10)

3. "Sadness Under the Belt of Venus" (3:33) an interesting sound palette for the opening 90 seconds before everything turns left into a solo piano base for Robin to sing over. Nice solo instrument palette though most everything (other than guitars and drums) are keyboard generated. (8.5/10)

4. "A Winter Storm on Spring Blossoms" (4:05) BRIAN AUGER meets JOE SAMPLE with a MOODY BLUES-like rock palette in the (sparse) vocal sections until the second half when everything goes full-on rock. (8/10)

5. "Equal Adoration" (4:28) nice liturgical-like vocals and melodies over piano. Flutes only enhance the angelic feel. Once again, however, this song feels incomplete. Still, a top three song for me. (9/10)

6. "Bridge of Anxiety" (2:39) military drums and background bouncy organ are soon joined by electric guitar power chords and guitar-like synth chords. Nice Moog soloing over the top. (4.5/5)

7. "Despair (2:51) brooding piano joined by Robin's Thom Yorke/Steven Wilson vocal. Another top three song. (4.5/5)

8. "Metabolism I: The Tree of Life (2:41) opens with cheap 1990's keyboard synth strings over which electric guitar delicately cries. (4.5/5)

9. "Metabolism II: Mother Nature's Sanctuary" (6:03) (8.25/10)

10. "Metabolism III: Spring (6:42) nice PINK FLOYD-like synth foundation over which guitarist "Shardan Stream" finally gets to shine. Nice tune. (8.75/10)

Total Time 38:57

B-/3.5 stars. Worth checking out!