Eclectic Prog
Norway
This early 70's Norwegian band played together for years without ever releasing an album; that is, until label Record Heaven heard about them in the late 90's and convinced them to re-record songs they had played live at the time. Thanks to RH, we can now enjoy a collection of highly energetic, raw and aggressive 70's power rock recorded with pristine modern technology. The band's material is reminiscent of BLACK SABBATH, URIAH HEEP, early SCORPIONS and JETHRO TULL, albeit a very manic TULL as the flutes battle it out savagely with pounding guitars. Their second album features no less than two flutes, two Mellotrons, electric and acoustic guitars, bass, drums and percussion as well as two vocalists. Their third also contains additional piano, cello, violin, viola, sax, trumpet, trombone and tuba contributed by various guest artists.
Quite impressive, their first effort "Underground and Beyond" (1997) was yet a mere hint at what the subsequent "In Anadi's Bower" and "Blues From Hellah" held in store. On these two, crunchy guitars, absolutely wild flute and tons of cascading mellotrons give way to meaner-than-snakes guitar riffs bound to send shivers up and down your spine. As for lead vocalist Jon Ruder, he is something of a cross between Ian Anderson and Klaus Meine (SCORPIONS). Of course, this music isn't all that innovative or adventurous, but it is delivered with such gusto it's hard not to love it.
Great stuff for fanatics of the bands mentioned above (SABBATH, HEEP, TULL).
Lise (HIBOU), CANADA
ALBUMS:
2007 - THE DIVINE TREE
Musicians
- Jon Ruder / vocals
- Thore Engen / guitars
- Freddie Lindquist / guitars
- Ame Martinussen / Hammond, keyboard, backing vocals
- Rune Engen / drums, percussion
- Einar Bruu / bass
- Svein Greni / flute
1. The Divine Tree (6:09)
2. Determination (8:11)
3. On Earth (5:07)
4. Almost Home (7:13)
5. The First Mover (7:31)
6. Crosseyed (10:54)
7. Bonus Track (5:07)
Look!!
