SILESIAN NIGHT 11.11.11

Skipping quickly past the rather misleading band name, this DVD of a performance by Love De Vice in 2011 represents something of a pleasant surprise. Recorded on the 11th November 2011 (11/11/11) in Katowice, Poland, the title refers to that city's location in the historic Polish/German/Czech region of Silesia.

Since their 2010 "Numaterial" album, keyboard player Jacek Melnicki has been promoted from guest to full band member, replacing Krzysztof Slaby in that role. Although they have released two albums to date, the songs performed here are largely new, intended for a forthcoming album.

Overall, the DVD has a very prog feel, drawing in diverse influences from bands such as Pink Floyd, Genesis, King Crimson, Deep Purple (of which more later) and of course the band's peers such as Believe, Osada Vida, Riverside, etc., from their native Poland. The sound centres around the rich emotive vocals and superb lead guitar of Andrzej Archanowicz who is very much the leader and front man.

The songs are generally long, with complex arrangements complemented by a relaxed approach. The addition of cello played by National Philharmonic musician Mateusz Szmyt and dilruba (a variation of the Hindu sitar played with a bow) played by Tomasz "Ragaboy" Osiecki adds welcome additional colours and moods to some of the songs.

Also included is a cover of Deep Purple's "When a blind man cries". The term adaptation would be more appropriate really, as the band develop the original themes superbly, adding their own identity to an old favourite. Both of the older songs, "With you now" and "Letter in A minor" are taken from the "Numaterial" album, the latter being the epic masterpiece that closes both that album and this gig.

Although the songs are sung in English, the narrative between the songs is spoken in Polish. Helpfully however for those from other parts, sub-titles are added in English. I get the impression that Love De Vice were not the headline act on the night as the audience, while receptive and polite, seem relatively restrained and the running time is around an hour and a quarter.

Looking at the technical aspects, the concert was recorded by Metal Mind Productions, so it goes without saying that the quality of the production, recording and editing is superb throughout. The sound is available in both 2.0 and 5.1 surround. Extras on the DVD include an interview with two members of the band, plus the usual discography, photos, etc. Also included is a video clip of "Foggy future", a song from the début album "Dreamland".

In summary, a remarkably enjoyable DVD containing a style of prog that seems at odds with the band's name. I would not hesitate to recommend the music here to those who seek high quality melodic prog.

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