AREKNAMÉS

This Italian band is quite attractive. The trio plays some excellent music deeply rooted into the seventies; but with a modern sound. Their debut album (2003) is full of surprise: ranging from very good (and English) vocals which might remind you of Peter Hammill. But this is not the only comparison with The Graaf.

Of course, no Jackson here; but gorgeous keys are doing the job alright. The opening song is a true gem of prog music. Melodic but at times heavy, it is a marvelous journey of over twelve minutes. And one doesn't want to disembark during such a wonderful experience. The finale is passionate and bombastic. One needs to breathe deeply after such a great moment. Very powerful and effective.

Therefore, the quietness of the start from "Wasted Time", is more than welcome to come back to earth. Actually, it is a combination of tranquil and dark passages with a heavy chorus. Excellent again. Mighty and brilliant. The second part features some heavier tones and some will instantly think of the early Crimson ("Schizoid").

It is true to say that a song as "Down" borrows a lot from the Graaf (probably too much), but the addition of some fine mellotron lines give a strong impact and lots of emotion. Still, I understand that some might get irritated by the similarities; but I can tolerate them. Probably because it is less frequent to play some derivative music from The Graaf than from "Genesis".

"Season Of Death" is very close to the heavy prog genre during the great organ middle part. Heep or Rooster aren't too far. The first (and only) weak moment is the song ."Boredom". Indeed, it is less inspired but it is compensated by an energetic closing number: "Grain Of Sand.", which has some ELP influence (keys of course) and combines again these heavy and aerial moments. A fine combination to my ears. I am in love with the closing and instrumental part. Just grandiose.

Of course, this album is maybe not the most original one. But I like it very much. Seven out of ten would be appropriate. For once, I will rate this album higher that the average note of my fellow reviewers. Four stars (but this has been stretched upwards).