CRASH

French band ELORA was formed in 2005, named after the daughter of bassist Jean-Vincent Fillipini. Following live performances in and around their base in Marseilles they released an initial EP in 2010, and in 2013 they signed with the German label Progressive Promotion Records for the release of their debut album "Crash".

Accessible, melodic progressive rock with a stated influence by Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd and Riverside is what Elora has to offer on their debut album, and just like the fellow French band Delusion Squared arguably with the former of these as the most natural comparison as far as stylistic expression is concerned. Tight, elegant and enticing progressive rock in short, and of a kind and variety that makes it logical to recommend this album to fans of bands like Porcupine Tree first and foremost.

Elora came together in Marseilles in 2005, and after releasing an EP in 2010 they signed with German label Progressive Promotion Records and have now just released their debut album 'Crash'. I have no problem listening to lyrics in another language, as it allows me to concentrate on the overall feel and sound of the songs (I'm a typical pom, can understand Te Reo Maori just enough to sing the anthem and I know the odd word, but apart from that it's English all the way). But, here I think I must be missing out on something as I just don't 'get' this album as much as I think that I should. It's extremely solid crossover with loads of influences, notably Porcupine Tree and Pink Floyd among others, and the use of male and female leads and harmonies is a nice aspect, but it is never really more than that.

If I try to dig into why I feel this way, I can only say that there is no real hook or melodic flow for me to really connect with the music, so it rather passes me by. At times very dreamy indeed, and almost New Age, there just isn't enough bite and edge for me to get excited about it. Possibly if I understood French then it might have more meaning, but this is like a snack as opposed to a full meal and leaves me wanting more. www.progressive-promotion.de

Elora announced on their facebook page, recording new songs, and I must confess I am waiting for a new album with impatience. Their first album "Crash" contains very promising songs. The accomplished musicians provide a melodic and energic opus. The two voices, male and female, alternate or unite very well . It is far from the very theatrical vocal tradition of many French symphonic rock group that irritates some, and Elora will appeal to amateurs of chorus closer to neo-prog.

The album, however, is a little too polished to my taste and lack of madness. We would like the musicians to let themself go a bit more. Many tracks are closer to pop or melodic rock than progessive rock.

If you want to discover the group, I recommend, the opener «Se taire», the tracks "L'espoir" part 1 and 2, plus "Crash." with its great ending.