SCAPEGOAT

This is the second album from the Swedish band ENSEMBLE NIMBUS. In the line up you can see the drummer from SAMLA MAMMAS MANNA, Hasse Bruniusson. Hasse is well known in the Swedish progressive scene as well as abroad for his work with SAMLA MAMMAS MANNA and The FLOWER KINGS. Stefan Carlsson was one of the main members on the debut CD, but here he's only stated as a guest musician. This CD was planned for a release through the label APM (Ad Perpetuam Memoriam) but was finally released on the Record Heaven's label. The best track is "Empty Chairs" where you can hear Tomas Bodin from FLOWER KINGS on keyboard. The cover art by Eva Källander is very good and it's suits the album just fine. This is very exciting and intriguing music and very challenging to listen to for those who's not used with this kind of music. The music is at times reminiscent to SAMLA MAMMAS MANNA, and I guess that if you're into SAMLA MAMMAS MANNA you'll love this CD as well. Highly recommended!

While a logical continuation of their debut album, this sophomore effort is definitely more complex and is has a harder edge. The level of energy is about the sale as on the previous album, but it is less festive/happy and more serious. You might want to compare this album between Von Zamla and Miriodor with a slight Hoyry Koyne twist.

This CD will please those interested in progressive rock but also jazz fans and everyone looking for music outside conventional categories. The Ensemble Nimbus, a Swedish band of great performers, uses an interesting array of instruments (from guitar, drums and keyboards to clarinets and sample loops) and blends complex and intriguing arrangements, beatiful melodic lines and occasionally hard rhythm sections and vocals. The result is a haunting and powerful collection of songs and instrumental pieces.