REVIURE

If one by using the term 'progressive rock' point towards the idea that music holds a certain progression in character, the band Atila surely hits the spot with their second offering, Reviure. Their first album was a truly wonderful album but very crude and leaning very much towards heavy prog in places, Reviure rather relies on atmosphere and shading. I suppose the term symphonic is rather telling. And while there is plenty of atmospheric excursions, such as is the case in 'Somni', one is bound to find several outbursts of the heavier sort.

As is the case with dictatorships, there are bound to be limitations. Now, without knowing too much about Spain under the boot of Franco, I could, however, surmise that cultural expression had it's limits and boundaries. In the mould of dicatorship there cannot be too much of artistig (or otherwise) expression. If so, I suppose, the dictator will feel he's losing control. Anyway, I won't ramble on the subject too long. My point is, really, that the death of Franco seemes to unleash an endless stream of talented, supressed musicians bursting at the seams with musical visions. Atila was one of those bands.

The opener, Reviure, starts off soothi g enough but soon burst out and the band delivers one majestic performance of symphonic styled prog, based on keyboards (as is much of this album). Somni is one of the best tracks among utterly brilliant ones. Amazing keyboards an texture. Atila is really hard and rocks hard prior to the winds of Al mati. Soothing and atmospheric but multilayered it ends a brief but so well constructed album.

If you're into keyboards, and vintage at that, this is very much an album for you. It holds everything you could wish for and played with great skill. The band is so tight and plays so well, I continue to be amazed and in awe. Though largely instrumental it holds just enough vocals to add to the mix, presenting some relief (by no means meant in a bad way) to the intensity of the instrumental parts.

In sum, this is a wonderful piece of art. Four tracks of immense beauty and beastly character. I seem to pick up new things every time and just when I think I've heard it all it explodes in front of my eyes (or ears) and delivers further depth. I am always cautious of giving five stars but I am bound to do so here. There is no other rating to consider. Utter brilliance and truly an album to discover.