TRIBUS

Review # 101. The Windmill is a Norwegian band that I discovered recently, and to be honest I was impressed. I had no idea about them until I saw some very good ratings and reviews about their latest album Tribus, and I decided to give it a try. Their music style can be characterized as Heavy Prog with a sound that reminds the bands of the '70s, but in a more modern way.

The album opens with the 24-minute-long The Tree, which left me speechless! If I would like to describe the feeling I had, I would say that it is as if you enter a train for a long journey, without knowing where it is going to lead you. So, you just sit back and enjoy the ride, with its infinite turns and changes of the landscape, and the peace you find yourself in. When the journey finally ends, you know that you only have to press "repeat" in order to feel it again. It is one of the album's "stronger" compositions, but that doesn't mean that the rest of the songs are just "fillers". Each of the 5 songs is wonderful in its own way, and creates different feelings for the listener. The Tree is followed by the 10-minute-long instrumental Storm. What I wrote about The Tree stands for Storm as well. The only difference is the length of the "journey". Another excellent track, including flute that permeates a vintage sound, if I can use that expression. Dendrophenia that comes next, is a lovely track that could easily fit in any of the old albums of Uriah Heep. A very nice and more "straight forward" track. Make Me Feel, the album's 4rth track, is another highlight! Again, a long ? 9.30-minute-long track, is one of the album's stronger compositions. I didn't pay much attention to it at first, because I kept listening to the first 2 songs repeatedly; but when I finally decided to continue with the rest of the album, this was the song that stuck with me again. Play with Fire is another wonderful tune that concludes the album in the best way possible. A more Folky and happier tune in comparison with the previous songs. Due to the sound of the flute and the singer's voice, it reminds me of Jethro Tull a little bit, but it cannot be characterized as a "copycat" in any way.

The things that I loved in Tribus are; firstly the very good and strong compositions, secondly, despite their sophistication, the songs don't tire you out. Although most of them include lots of changes, they come artlessly and effortlessly. These guys don't try to impress the listener with their technical skills, (which are very good), but with the quality of their music and their overall performance instead. This is a wonderful album that you listen from the first until the last minute, without having to skip not even one song. All the songs are wonderful and they have something to offer. Stronger tracks: The Tree, Storm, Make Me Feel. Weaker Tracks: None. It would be a mistake to ignore this album! Give it a try and you won't regret it. My Rating: 4.5 stars.