Progarchives, the progressive rock ultimate discography
Somnambulist - Somnambulist CD (album) cover

SOMNAMBULIST

Somnambulist

 

Crossover Prog

3.46 | 41 ratings

From Progarchives.com, the ultimate progressive rock music website

ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer
4 stars The music displayed on this album is deeply reflecting the characteristics of the Eclectic genre more than the "Cross-Over" melting pot in which the band was dropped. Initially, Eclectic was the genre they were thrown in though (accordingly)?

As some reviewers have already outlined, this is a serious Crimson affair, with early "Ange" parameters as far as the instrumental parts are concerned of course. Because the vocal department (which is rather scarce) has nothing to do with the latter great band I have mentioned, unfortunately.

So, let's focus on the instrumental sections?They are powerful but not heavy, they are dark but not too obscure. The music is intricate but not damned; complex but not inaccessible. In one word or two: quite good.

The good old riff from "Watcher" is obviously borrowed during "Globos Formas Para Maņana" and the band often leaves the ground to a full and Crimsionian affair ("Pinocchio"). Fine and delicate mellotron, sweet guitar breaks, gorgeous bass play and finally, to top the whole story: the guitar work is just splendid. This is the most achieved track from this album, and also my fave. It is great music by all means.

This is one of the best US eclectic prog rock album ever released IMHHO. The vocal department is not top notch ("Prometheus' Lament") but the last section is a wonderful mix between "Genesis" and "Van Der Graaf". I would say that the whole album is quite challenging and it is worth your attention.

I would rate this effort with four stars even if the closing and longest track is not the best one available.

ZowieZiggy | 4/5 |

MEMBERS LOGIN ZONE

As a registered member (register here if not), you can post rating/reviews (& edit later), comments reviews and submit new albums.

You are not logged, please complete authentication before continuing (use forum credentials).

Forum user
Forum password

Share this SOMNAMBULIST review

Social review comments () BETA







Review related links

Copyright Prog Archives, All rights reserved. | Legal Notice | Privacy Policy | Advertise | RSS + syndications

Other sites in the MAC network: JazzMusicArchives.com — jazz music reviews and archives | MetalMusicArchives.com — metal music reviews and archives

Donate monthly and keep PA fast-loading and ad-free forever.