VULTRESS

When taking about this Australian band, we are talking about Ray Vanderby, the man who set up Cosmic Nomads in Sydney in 2003.Vanderby is the main composer, organist and singer of the band, which changed no less than 8 members during the early years.After the ''Make love not war'' album (2004) and the 2005 EP ''Dreamin' about you'', both released on Vanderby's own Majique Music label, the man took the whole thing to Melbourne and Cosmic Nomads received a serious lifting.Vanderby was now collaborating with 'King' Con Patogiannis (guitar, vocals), Geoff Brown (bass), Gina Woods (Wurlitzer piano, synths), Anni Lang (percussion, vocals) and Miam Lentini (drums).This line-up recorded the second album of the band ''Vultress'', released in 2007.

Cosmic Nomads and Vanderby appear to be full-blown lovers of early-70's Psychedelic and Progressive Rock with a sound flirting with the fundamentals of URIAH HEEP (groovy parts), QUATERMASS (more bluesy organ-smashed numbers) and BRIAN AUGER's tendency towards Fusion paths.As a result the majority of the displayed tracks are based on rhythmic tunes, full of Hammond organ parts, solid drumming and occasional guitar moves with poetic vocals and some humourous touches.Bombastic organ torturing, psychedelic solos and clean multi-parted vocals combine for a musicianship, which passes from groovy Rock to Prog to Jazz-Fusion.The music is mostly fast-paced with strecthed instrumental masturbations, but also a very positive and rockin' vibe, making the listener tapping his foot over the pleasant rhythmic parts.Reputedly Vanderby was also a fan of Classical Music, but there is little of such an influence in this album, which is dominated by a Heavy/Psych Rock mood with organ in the forefront and an overall joyful atmosphere.

Maybe a file next to NIACIN, albeit in a less jazzy version.Pop vocals, monster organ waves and attractive rhythms in a blend of vintage sounds.Recommended.