BANISHED BRIDGE

My friend Febus asked me several times already to review this German band. My problem so far was that I knew that they turned to German vocals pretty soon after their debut and I have to admit that I have some difficulties to swallow these. Anyway, here we go.

Actually, what can I say about the title track?

That it fu.ing bloody melodic? That the interplay between strong and pastoral passages counts amongst the most beautiful ones? That if the early ''Genesis'' is one of your musical model, you shouldn't miss this one? That the ocean of keys requires some good swimming skills to survive? That I would have liked to get some guitar in here? That the song could have been longer? That this epic has no weak moment for over seventeen minutes? That it is a classic and formidable song? That it is a masterpiece of symphonic rock?

Yes, I guess I can say this. I will also add that the pastoral intro and closing is a beautiful prolongation of the marvellous ''Trespass''. A masterpiece, I told you!

I would add though that the vocal department is rather weak during the upbeat and short ''High Evolution''. Fully bombastic and enjoyable, except the dreadful vocals of course.

This aspect is settled during ''Laughing'' which is a more conventional ''Novalis'' song. It is complex and changes from theme quite often. To some extent, it is a ''Banished Bridge'' in miniature. Not as great but my second fave (of course, there are only four tracks here.). Some fine percussion combined with acoustic guitar evoke a psyche mood which is due to please yours truly.

There is some feel of an upbeat ''Procol Harum while ''Inside Of Me'' is being played. The extensive use of keys of course.Brilliant instrumental intro.

This is an excellent album which could have deserved the maximum rating if vocals would have been on par with the superb music and if ''High Evolution'' would have been replaced by a better track. Four stars.