NOSTRADAMUS BOOK OF PROPHECIES

This album by Solaris has been with me for quite a very long time and I keep enjoying it very much and finally I realize that I have not put any writing about this. The band Solaris itself is not something that I am familiar with even though I knew the name sometime ago from prog friend right here in Jakarta. Specific to this album I can comment that it's really an excellent symphonic prog music album that any of you who like early prog would likely love this one even though this is not something like Genesis or Yes but it's something different that you never imagine before. Yes there is some elements of space music as well as fusion but it's more than that. I think, the most critical thing about this album is its novelty in creating unique experience to the listeners where the music flows beautifully from start to the point where you are listening to.

Let's look at the epic first three track that are titled 'Book Of Prophecies' (20:35), I can see myself being brought forward by the music from start until now when I reach third minute of the third track. I do not realize that the band has dragged me into the 17th minute of the epic without notice. Why? Because its segments have been composed wonderfully by the band that finally the listeners are not aware that they have been with the music for more than 15 minutes unnoticed! So, what do they specifically do with the music they produce? Well, it's basically comprising of combined efforts by all instruments used here including flute as well as vocals that play as choirs. It's actually an instrumental track as there is no lyrical verse. For me personally I really enjoy the changes in tempo, mood as well as the use of flute as melody in some segments plus the beautiful rhythm section.

In fact when the track moves into the fourth 'The Duel' (7:20), I am not aware of it. This track offers great flute-work as well as stunning guitar solo combined with vintage organ work. It's so nice! It then flows nicely to the fifth 'The Lion's Empire' (6:40) through a nice combination of flute and guitar fills. The mood then changes to something rocking with flute as filler, followed by nice Rickenbaker bass solo - even though quite short.

'Wings Of The Phoenix' (5:08) starts off with bass guitar followed with flute and then keyboard work. Flute and guitar take the lead in bringing the melody of the music. I love 'Ship Of Darkness' (5:46) as it demonstrates great drum works around the music accompanied with rocking flute-work. Oh man ... I used to play this track loudly as I love the drum work.

Overall, this is a very close to perfect album by Solaris. I really enjoy the music from start to end and I think most of you who love prog music would really enjoy this album. It's really excellent!!! Keep on proggin' ...!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW

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