ALBUM

Dogma was a relatively short-lived Brazilian band that recorded two fine albums during the nineties and then disappeared. The band's 1992 debut is a collection of melodic and tranquil instrumentals, the longest and most noteworthy of the 6 tracks being the 22-minute closer A Season For Unions. Dogma was clearly influenced by Camel, with Fernando Campos's guitar work highly reminiscent of Andy Latimer. There is nothing here to offend the ears or to lower the spirits; this is music to calm and soothe.

First track, Beginnings, is fairly run of the mill with nothing to set it apart from a host of other Neo-Prog tracks. Things improve dramatically with the carefree Clouds, which features a guest appearance by Sagrado Coracao violinist Marcus Viana. After a minute or so of atmospheric guitar/keyboard noodlings, the main tune is characterized by the expressive and voice-like tone of Viana's violin. As the tune drifts along it perfectly captures the image of passing clouds. The opening of Night Wind sounds like Watcher Of The Skies, one of probably countless song intros that do so. Thereafter it's another pretty nondescript Neo-Prog tune. Dogma must have liked the opening section of Seven Angels In Hell, because they virtually replicated it on the title track of their follow-up album Twin Sunrise. Ok, so they're maybe not the most original of bands. In my view the penultimate track, Movements, is the main highlight of the album. The hauntingly seductive guitar of Fernando Campos should warm the cockles of even the coldest heart. That leaves the aforementioned A Season For Unions, which is overflowing with romantic themes that Dogma brings together faultlessly. Following hot on the heels of Movements, these two tracks provide a very strong finish to the album.

In summary, this is a spirited and genial offering from one of Brazil's lesser-known bands. It's on a par with the band's second release, so it merits the same 4 stars I gave that one.