ICE FOR ESKIMOS

Interesting little band from England that would be better labeled here as crossover prog or prog related than neo prog. Because if you´re expecting something like Marillion or IQ you may be disappointed. Primitive Instict´s debut CD is a very good mix of pop and prog. More pop than prog, I should point it out. Still, they are aboce average thanks to their flair for the great hook, the nice arrangement and the strong songwriting skills. They never sound dull or too ordinary.

Nick Sheridan is the main character here: his guitar playing is the best thing about this band (tasteful licks and passionate solos). His vocals are emotional and convincing. Even if he is not a really a quite outstading vocalist he does his job pretty well and his voice fits perdectly to their sound. Keyboards are a bit too conventional, but fortunatly they are not the usual 80´s plastic sound that plagued so many bands at the time. Bass and drums are precise. All songs are good, but some of the longer cuts (specially the closer, the 7 and a half minute mini epic Praying For The Rain) are the most progressive and truely the album´s highlights.

If you´re looking for something simple and melodic, yet well done and made with obvious passion, Ice For Skimos is a good choice. Saga, Muse and Alan Parsons fans will be specially delighted. Nice melodic surprise. 3,5 stars.