CINDERELLA SEARCH

Widely-unknown Japanese symphonic band,starting their career around mid- to late-80's under the figure of keyboardist/singer Akihisa Nakamura.On CINDERELLA SEARCH we also find classic-trained/prog-influenced violinist Junko Minobe with many collaborations in her country,later to be found on the line-up of another great Japanese progressive act,''Azoth''.Picture material indicate that CINDERELLA SEARCH was much of a theatrical group,using costumes and make-ups.By 1993 the band had grown into a sextet,while their debut came out the same year on Made In Japan.

Despite the link with the eponymous song of ''Marillion'' and the use of costumes,recalling ''Genesis'', CINDERELLA SEARCH'es sound has nothing to do with these bands.Their musicianship is much brighter and sensitive, characterized by the trully heavy use of violin,so the appropriate comparisons would be compatriots OUTER LIMITS or even better SAGRADO CORACAO DA TERRA.You won't find much of fiery electric guitars in here either.''Cinderella search'' is based on the magnificent violins of Minobe,the strong synth/organ solos of Nakamura and Masahiro Takeuchi,the solid rhythm section and the ultra-sensitive vocals of Nakamura,making the whole atmosphere quite romantic and emotional.The result is a rather straightforward melodic prog album with classical elements,yet a couple of tracks offer the bombastic sound of the well-known Japanese bands,featuring nice guitar solos and sufficient interplays.

Notice that all lyrics are written in English,while the last (awesome) track ''Remember you'' has been covered by Fabio Zuffanti's HOSTSONATEN on their debut (how did they dig it up???).For fans of soft symphonic/melodic prog this is an absolutely decent album.Personally I enjoyed it quite a bit.Recommended.