PAINTING THE BLUE

You ever been attracted to a record solely because of the album cover ? I kept coming back to this one because of the picture of the blue water and sky. The band is called PICTURES, and they are from Italy. The album is naturally called "Painting The Blue".

I could not find out anything about this band or album except through Greg Walker who described it as "very well-done Symphonic prog with a pop edge". I'm reminded a little of SYLVAN, mostly because these guys too create catchy, accessible songs with good vocals and some great guitar.The lyrics are in English, and the lead guitarists that are used are both guests on this record.

"September" is a good opener, lots of keys and some nice guitar riffs. Perhaps my favourite is the slower paced "Rythym" with acoustic guitar, just beautiful. Another highlight is "Synthetic Monkey" an instrumental over ten minutes long. Lots of time changes and some heavy guitar, bass and drums. There's even a keyboard solo, followed by a guitar solo with drums pounding along. Some quieter parts come later in the song. "Jack Of Sand" has an infectious chorus and a long guitar solo.

This is well played, uplifting music. 3.5 stars.

Yes ! I did it again ! I found myself another jewel, another hidden gem by searching hard. And hidden it is. Only two ratings and two reviews for this high quality album by an almost unknown band. At least I'm glad I went for this one.

The quality standard is caused by very good compositions and great execution. And I don't agree with one of the reviews the vocals are awful, they sound pretty good to me. And I compare this band with Luxembourg outfit No Name who have just about the same qualities. This is accessible, 100% neo prog in highly melodic style. I agree with John Davie that Synthetic Monkey and Jack of Sand are the highlights of the album and are terrific songs indeed. But the other six tracks are hardly less I feel.

But I don't agree with John's rating. He gave 3,5* but rounded down to three. Too bad, because rounding up would have been more justified here. So I will do that instead. But in my case it's not rounded up, it's a full blooded 4 stars to me. Ok, maybe not the most challenging, original prog you'll ever hear, but extremely pleasant for the ears for sure. Highly recommended for neo prog fans.