LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

1 - Postmodernity (8'47) 2 - The Brass Serpent (36'15) 3 - Olivet (7'26) 4 - The Grace Of God (5'33)
During the Seventies, the United States of America were known for the energy shown by its Progressive rock scene, whose leaders were then named CATHEDRAL, MIRTHRANDIR, STARCASTLE and FIREBALLET. What united them in those days was definitely a boundless admiration for Steve HOWE’s guitar solos and elaborated YES compositions. This spirit is precisely what AKACIA rediscovered, some twenty five years later ! This current band, a quartet of virtuosos from Massachusetts, will probably turn all the established values of current Progressive rock upside down. "An Other Life" (2003) includes four long tracks in the most flamboyant symphonic Progressive rock style. The listener will especially acknowledge the value of "Journal", the final 22-minute suite. Deeply personal, Eric NAYLOR’s vocals perfectly fit the music and avoid at all cost similarities with Jon ANDERSON. Which is, at last, a thoughtful choice ! Two years later, AKACIA publishes its second album "The Brass Serpent" (2005). Once again, four long pieces are to be found, filled with philosophy and Christian spirituality, including the title suite clocking at more than 35 minutes ! Fans of Seventies sounds, of instrumental solos, of an ever-present Rickenbaker bass, this new album will probably haunt your CD player for a very long time...