TIME

I have to thank Todd for the heads up on this one.TIME was a Progressive Rock band from what was then Yugolslavia, and this is their debut released in 1972. The singer here had been with KORNI GRUPA but he left them in 1971 and helped form this band. From the descriptions i've read about this band I wasn't so sure if I would like it. The mention of Proto-Prog and some of the heavier early bands like URIAH HEEP and DEEP PURPLE gave me low expectations. After many listens I can't hear how the two bands I mentioned sound anything like TIME, but I will admit there is this Proto-Prog flavour here, but this is far better than most Proto-Prog bands i've listened to,and proggier.The vocals are the key, they're so warm and well done, I can't say enough about them. Keyboards and guitar are outstanding while the bass and drums are also excellent and prominant.

"Istina Masina" has this catchy rhythm with vocals.The organ that comes in is a little nasty. Guitar to the fore late. "Pjesma No3" opens with light drums and flute. Very pastoral. Reserved vocals before a minute.The organ floats in. A fuller sound before 2 minutes with passionate vocals but it settles back quickly. Laid back guitar too.Themes are repeated. "Hegedupa Upa" opens with strummed guitar as vocal melodies join in. Organ and drums before a minute. Flute follows. Guitar before 3 1/2 minutes makes some noise.This is great !

"Kralj Alkohol" starts and stops twice but the third time is the charm. Piano, light drums and reserved vocals lead the way.The organ before 3 minutes takes the lead. Nice. Back to the earlier sound then the organ returns 5 1/2 minutes in. "Za Koji Zivot Treba Da Se Rodim" is my favourite and the longest at around 10 minutes.Gentle guitar as reserved vocals join in. It kicks in before a minute. Nice. Electric guitar follows. An excellent instrumental section with piano. Flute then replaces the piano 4 1/2 minutes in as he lets it rip. A nice and heavy sound here. It's the guitars turn after 5 1/2 minutes. A calm before 7 minutes. Organ floats in as it builds. Vocals are back before 8 1/2 minutes. Big finish.

Very enjoyable and a solid 4 stars.