KURZA TWARZ

Polish band from the metropolitan center of Trójmiasto, propably from Gdansk, found in 1979.The main figures of the band throughout their short career were guitarist Andrzej Kazmierczak, bassist Waldemar Kobielak and multi-instrumentalist Marian Narkowicz.Several musicians would join the group until its demise in 1985, among them was also Exodus' singer Kazimierz Barlasz.In 2006 Metal Mind Records released a CD with material performed by Cytrus between 1980 and 1985, captured in various sessions for the Polish Radio in Gdansk, Szczecin and Poznan, under the title ''Kurza twarz''.

A mostly excellent compilation, ''Kurza twarz'' presents a very good Progressive/Art Rock band, covering a wide spectrum of styles through the first half of the 80's, where their powerful Heavy Rock is enriched with great violin and flute parts.The jazzier tracks contain some dynamic grooves and great violin parts with complicated arrangements and a great rhythm section, reminiscent of FERMATA's best days.The main style of the band though was a passionate, flute-driven Heavy Rock with strong JETHRO TULL overtones, filled with bluesy guitar solos, angular riffs and rockin' grooves, still the music maintains a nice, complex nature.Among the harder passages there are also plenty of symphonic leanings, especially in the mellow moments based on Narkowicz'es delicate flute work.The first 11 tracks are all instrumental and you'll have to wait until the last four ones for some vocal work, delivered in Polish language by Barlasz, of course the style remains a sharp and groovy Heavy Rock with strong guitar hooks and extended flute/violin parts.

Very good, energetic and enjoyable Heavy Prog by this forgotten 80's Polish band, having evident jazzy and symphonic vibes at moments.Strongly recommended for fans of JETHRO TULL-esque Prog and beyond...3.5 stars.