FORGOTTEN INSIDE

I have a personal interest in this particular band. Mavara is a prog rock band out of Iran that has recently set up shop in New England, USA. In fact, they have been touring the east coast and have even made the local papers (always good to hear a prog band do that). I've become acquainted with their neo-progressive style and I simply love it. Therefore, I have a personal interest in seeing this band succeed.

Mavara, in a word, are "lush". That's what I get over and over from their music. There are no empty spaces. There are no "this could really use a little more..." passages. The music is full and fluid. The core of their sound, in my opinion, is the ethereal application of piano and synth. This impressive foundation is bolstered even more by the excellent guitar work and solos. Add a dash of powerfully mixed drums and then a bass that won't quit, and you'll have an idea of what makes Mavara tick. On top of all this, however, are Ashkan's vocals. His one-of-a-kind voice is melodic and perfect for harmonizing with the fluid feel of the keys. He is grounded, but also quite emotional in his work.

On this particular album, "Forgotten Inside", the band really established themselves. While I do enjoy their newest album, "Season of Salvation", more than this one, I can hear the making of the lushness here. "Forgotten Inside" is intensely emotional, and also quite varied musically. "Something is Lost" is synthy and groovy, while "Old Pain" is slower and very personal. Ballads and rockers abound, but anguish-filled lyrics are a constant, too. Mavara are certainly talented, and I see great things in their future.