VISIONARY POSITION

Swansea-based UK act Panic Room was actually the reason Karnataka almost disbanded in mid-00's, when Jonathan Edwards and Anne-Marie Helder parted ways with the band and later asked Gavin John Griffiths and Paul Davies if they would like to join them in a new project.Both accepted the invitation, leaving Karnataka's leader Ian Jones all alone, simultanseously giving birth to Panic Room.They were joined by bassist Alun Vaughan and released their debut ''Visionary Position'' in 2008 on their own Firefly Records.Some of the tracks feature also the help of Liz Prendergast from Bluehorses on violins and arrangements.

The 4/5 of Karnatake escaped the attention of Ian Jones, but seem to have to not escaped their music past with KARNATAKA at all, as Panic Room's sound has strong references from the music of KARNATAKA.All these kind of bands seem to be extremely influenced by the ''Brave''-era MARILLION plus the evident folky touches, eventually coming up with a pretty song-based and accesible form of Progressive Rock, approached by a wider audience.The music of Panic Room remains melodic and easy-listening all the way, even in the very long ''The Dreaming'', with a very dreamy atmosphere surrounding their music.The tracks are split between short, laid-back Art Rock pieces with ethereal soundscapes and warm vocals by Anne-Marie Helder, musically led by acoustic guitars, piano and synths, and more upbeat cuts, which still are quite easy-listening, with evident use of electric guitars, more sharp keyboards and safe riffs, eventually producing a more passionate and energetic mood.Among the pieces there are a few violin- or flute-based themes, a sign that Panic Room can be easily regarded as a KARNATAKA offshoot act at least in this release.

If you are fond of the music of KARNATAKA, IONA, MOSTLY AUTUMN and the likes, Panic Room's ''Visionary Position'' will be an excellent addition in your collection.Atmospheric, smooth Progressive/Art Rock of decent quality.Recommended.