SKEEM

Delightful neo prog combo from France! I want to send my regards to Progrules who recommended me this band. I was quite surprised by their sound, very tasteful and melodic, really captivating. It took me a while to really get into this one, but when it did, I was hooked and I've heard this CD many times after. Some tracks seems to lean toward a more AOR oriented path, but that's deceptive, for the record is definitly progressive.

Skeem is mainly a project of Serge Barbaro, who plays all guitars and is a fine singer and songwriter. I loved his soaring guitar lines. The dual keyabords are a nice touch and the rhythm sectiom is precise. Some tracks are obviously better than the others, but there are no fillers here. My favorite is 9 minute prog trip Chrysalides, with its hauting keyboards lines and great guitar solos. I also should pint out the progressive ballad What a Night. Production is very good. and teh Cd is very well balanced

If you're into neo prog this is a must have. I'd love to hear more from this band. I hope Barbaro is using all this time since their debut's release to write new stuff from this little known, but very good group. Four solid stars. Excellent addition to my collection!