WIZARD'S EYES

INSIDE THE SOUND is the project of Ukranian guitarist Max Velychko. This is their second and most recent release from 2017. Essentially, they are a trio here with some guests filling out the sound. Max might be known to some here for his work with Ukranian bands like MODERN-ROCK ENSEMBLE, SUNCHILD and KARFAGEN. And speaking of that last band I mentioned, we get Anthony Kalugin guesting here on keyboards on one song.

This is an all instrumental album save for some brief vocals here and there, including some wordless female vocals on "Haribol". I was into this album right from the first spin. It's just such an energetic and feel good recording. Very much a guitar/synth led album. And a lot of positive vibes, lots of light. It's kind of a "tweener" you could say, as it's easily a 4 star record but the synths at times keep this from being an absolute favourite or 5 star record.

Still, I looked forward to playing this each time. The vibes are inviting. We get ten tracks worth under 52 minutes here. And other than the final two songs, these tracks are all pretty much 4 to 6 minutes in length. Max is certainly a team player but his synths and guitar lead all the way. And he even adds some banjo. A lot of spacey moments too that are created by synths or guitar. The first track after the opener to make a statement is "Friends" where Kalugin guests on keys but we also get some guest electric violin on the second half of the song which is a nice change. Some emotion too on that guitar solo.

There's a funky mood on "Empire V" as well as an intensity before it all changes after 2 1/2 minutes to a lighter and not better sound before the funk returns late. Check out the banjo on "Haribol", different is the word. A sample of waves can be heard to start "Horizon" before a "Mission Impossible" sound takes over. Before we get to the spacey closer called "Outro" at a minute in length, we get the longest piece at over 7 minutes called "To The Sky". Lots to like on the latter including an uplifting presence.

A pleasant surprise this one was, and a solid 4 stars is the result.

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