STILL DREAM

Edhels is a talented modern symph band led by guitarist/keyboardist Marc Ceccotti, an instrumenta lensemble whose prog direction is heavily keyboard-based: I must add that the use of keyboards is not excessive nor gratuitous, but a medium to build symphonic textures and ambiences, with both good taste and eerie delicacy. This is the sonic landscape drawn for the guitar (and occasionally guitar synth) soloing to surface now and then. The overall sound is very reminiscent of 80s Camel, Camel, and to a certain degree, neo-prog's instrumental facet, including some jazz-pop flavours. The use of some electronic percussion devices enhances the modern essence of Edhels' prog. Meanwhile, the guitar solos are pretty much influenced by Latimer's lyrical approach, at times infected by an odd Frippian twist, never getting too deconstructive, but indeed a bit disturbing. 'Capitaine Armoure', 'October Dawns' and the bonus track 'Heart Door' are in my opinion the most representative of Edhels' style, and they are certainly the most accomplished samples of the band's elegant symph style. Regarding the softer side of Edhels, the most notable tracks are 'Butterfly Child' (which contains a delicate new-age touch) and the solemn 'Annibal's Trip'. Tracks 4, 6 and 12 are acoustic interludes that show the most pristine side of Edhels: their skill on the handling of electronic stuff can also be properly used when it comes to acoustic instruments. All in all, a very interesting musical work from a band that was to evolve artistically on their following recordings.