ACROSS THE RUBICON

Silhouette are one of a number of fine bands I have discovered thanks to the excellent "Progstreaming" website. Hailing from The Netherlands, the band have released three albums so far, this being their latest at time of writing.

While "Across the Rubicon" does not seek to explore new prog territories, it does undoubtedly represent the best in class of neo-prog. The composition and musicianship throughout this album are truly of the highest order. In terms of comparisons, IQ would seem to be to be the best reference point. The lush symphonic keyboards and fine lead guitars upon which the tracks are founded are complemented by excellent vocals similar to those on albums such as "Dark matter".

After the brief symphonic mood setting of the opening title track, we are straight into the sublime "Time", and 11½ minute epic which takes the template for neo-prog and gives it a damn good polish. This piece features all the sweeping synths, power-prog guitars and killer melodies anyone could ask for. As an introduction to the band (for me at least) this is one of the most exciting tracks I have heard in a long time.

Other highlights include "When snow's falling down", which starts rather deceptively with a straightforward rock theme before developing instrumental sections reveals the true majesty of the piece. The track concludes with a highly effective children choir. "Anybody" is a song the band have been playing live for some time, although the version here has been modified to exploit the enhanced facilities available in a studio, especially with regard to the vocal harmonies. "Grendel memories" reflects the fact that several of the band list Marillion among their favourite bands. The track features some wonderful mellotron like synth layers and a powerful main theme.

In all there are three long tracks (over 11 minutes) on the album, each being developed superbly into a neo-prog standard. Each can be taken in isolation, but the album is best experienced as a complete suite of songs. Heard as such, each track complements the last and leads seamelssly to the next.

Silhouette are one of the newer breed of bands who recognise that the music industry does not readily offer a living wage these days. They therefore make music as a hobby. As such they are free to make the type of music they genuinely believe in and enjoy. The fruits of their efforts bear witness to their enthusiasm and their talent. If there is any justice in the world, and indeed in the prog world, Silhouette will enjoy great success for many years. On the evidence of this album, they certainly have a bright future. Highly recommended.

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