FERMÁTA

I thoroughly enjoyed their "Huascaran" record, an album that most people consider to be FERMATA's masterpiece. I was content to end my affair with this band right there, but then along came Todd who insisted I needed to hear their first two albums as well. Thankyou once again Todd ! For my money these first two recordings surpass everything this band has accomplished including "Huascaran". This their debut has simply blown me away with it's sheer power and finesse. I can't say enough about each member of the band, the playing here is flawless. Thankfully the sound quality is crystal clear as well.

"Rumunska Rapsodia" has a powerful intro then the tempo speeds up with drums and guitar leading the way. It's like the guitar is dancing all over the soundscape. It settles after 1 1/2 minutes as the guitar solos, then drums,huge bass and piano kick in. I really like the electric piano. The guitar is screaming 3 1/2 minutes in then the tempo picks up again. A calm before 4 1/2 minutes but not for long. "Perpetuum II" is experimental to open then sounds come and go quietly before it starts to build after 2 minutes. Chunky bass, drums and piano stand out. Love how this sounds. Check out the drumming after 3 1/2 minutes. My God ! It kicks back in and the keyboards really impress. Guitar kicks in at 5 1/2 minutes then it settles with drums and keys. Nice. The guitar before 8 minutes is laying a trail of fire to the 10 minute mark.

"Postavim Si Vodu Na Caj" sounds amazing. It has to be heard. The intricate drumming and guitar work with deep bass is outstanding. It settles as we get some atmosphere. It kicks in at 2 minutes. This is so good, very moving. The guitar is lighting it up. A change 3 1/2 minutes in and the tempo picks up to end it. "Valcik Pre Krstnu Mamu" opens with solemn organ before it kicks in with lots of keyboards. Guitar too. It settles again after 3 minutes. Nice bass. Blistering guitar 5 minutes in. It's heavy late with more great guitar. "Perpetuum III" is the almost 12 minute closer. Water sounds to open as the music plays along. The guitar comes to the fore before 2 1/2 minutes. It's pretty intense then it changes completely before 3 1/2 minutes. Nice bass and drums here. It kicks in again before 6 minutes with the guitar out in front. A change follows as drums lead but then the guitar is back a minute later ripping it up. This is just a joy, so emotional as he plays on and on. A big finish with some thunder.

What more can I say ? I'm shocked at how good this is.