ARGOT

OK, at times some more complex interplay than usual do appear in their music but globally, the neo style dominates. Sounding as ELP during some parts of the epic opening number (20+ minutes), but with flat, average vocals.

''Argot'' is a Parisian dialect spoken mostly by lower classes some decades ago, and it is quite difficult to grab why they have chosen this as the title of their second album. Anyway.

Like in their debut album, the band is proposing long compositions (ranging between thirteen to twenty minutes) which could have been shorter for a couple of them. This being said, I prefer ''Argot'' to their debut one. Some more complexity is welcome and there are some fine instrumental passages unfortunately mixed with weaker vocal parts. I can best describe their music as a combination of a simplified mix between Crimson and ELP.

Not too bad at all, but without too much originality either. Pleasant neo-prog but no more. Three stars for their efforts in adding some more subtlety at times. But by no means a masterpiece.

To be sure of this, you only need to listen to ''Proximity'': the weakest number from this album shows the limitations of the band in terms of song writing and (lack of) inventiveness. This track sounds pompous and uninspired. Cloning ''Yes'' and ELP. But I would rather suggest to listen to the genuine ones instead.

The last track is heavier but with the same sources of inspiration. Three stars for this album.

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