PERSONAL EFFECTS - PART TWO

This album is the second part of the band's epos 'Personal Effects'. FREQUENCY DRIFT started in 2008 with songs inspired by movies and dominated by an impressive female voice, stylistically appointed as cinematic prog. The fantasy story is about protagonist River, a young woman who is forced to fight against an imaginary association. Representing the dark side of the whole story, Part 1 is provided with a more depressive attitude whilst showing a dark presentation and corresponding illustrations. Part 2 though appears with a new entity in a more pleasant outfit. As before you won't find lyrics given within the booklet. So when listening you have to concentrate on the vocals ... and the correlating pictures of course.

Mastermind Andreas Hack has refined concept und instrumentation. Once again the focus is on expressive female vocals which are very present. This time even three different, each representing one character depending on the story. Sound effects and spoken word samples are interspersed all over. Altogether 12 musicians are involved, especially to name White Willow guitarist Jacob Holm-Lupo here. The album starts ambient, they provide a nice sci-fi atmosphere - cosmic synth patterns are backing samples with voices and seagull cries. String arrangements are preparing for the album's first symphonic highlight Deceit which shows alternating impressions - chamber music, ambient and finally rocking parts dominated by a playful piano plus heavy riffing guitars.

The following groovy Conflict continues more accessible with a catchy melody and psychedelic guitars which are also crossing the next song Inside - even somewhat gilmouresque - developing to something really charming later by the way. Vocals and electric piano surely have a large share. The band follows these paths with more intriguing compositions and melodies furthermore which is really convincing - worked out with passion for detail, sometimes groovy rocking, sometimes relaxed and emotive. As for the latter I just want to notice the closing Lasting Effect which is so smooth - just listen to this before you go to bed and a peaceful night (missing out any nightmares) is guaranteed.

Well done! This goes for all who are involved here. Although not really hailing from the experimental fields of prog FREQUENCY DRIFT's songs appear matured, all in all the album sounds more rounded compared to Part 1. Stylistically based on symphonic and ambient respectively psychedelic impressions. This may even appeal to some mainstream oriented rock music fans too. Îf you're keen on atmospheric songs and excellent female vocals you can't go wrong with this.