INSIDER

And with the same line-up, Sel Balamir produced and composed this collection of alternative prog-rock songs with an even more saturated sound, strong drums and great bass lines. The lyrics are so philosophical as ever, with some humor always implicit on them, and the style of the band remains more or less unaltered in comparison with the first album, leaving a bit the most experimental side of the band showed in And The Astronaut Dismantles Hal.

Sadly, the album lacks a bit of variety in the long term and the compositions are also not so outstanding this time, despite a pair of truly great and inspired moments. So although Insider is a worthy follow-up of the incredible Amplifier, it's impossible not to feel a bit of disappointed after repeated listening.

Best Tracks: Gustav's Arrival (incredible instrumental opener), O Fortuna (one of Amplifier's classics and a very stimulating mixture of alternative rock, progressive structures and even country influences) and Strange Seas of Thought (great guitar riffs)

Conclusion: Insider was the confirmation that Amplifier was here to stay, showing moments of true talent with songs like O Fortuna. Sadly, in comparison with the almost perfect debut of the band this second album feels a bit repetitive, hollow and with some uninspired moments in the form of songs like the boring What is Music?

Nevertheless, it's an album that I will continue to hear in the future and a worthy addition to the very interesting Amplifier's discography.

My rating: ***

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