|
BEYOND THE MIRROR
Alias eye are a five piece outfit based in Mannheim, Germany whose line up consists of Philip Griffiths (vocals); Matthias Richter (Guitars); Frank Fischer (bass); Vytas Lemke (keyboards); and Ludig Benedek
(drums). The band came into being late in 1998 when Vytas Lemke joined the other four members who had been working as a covers band playing Jimi Hendrix tracks.
The various members of the band list amongst their influences a range of artists from the origins of progressive music - such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Jethro Tull - to more up to date bands like Spocks Beard
and Dream Theater.
In view of this is not surprising that they have chosen to write their music in a progressive rock style, and while being at the same time driven by a liking for composers such as Bach and Beethoven they have also endeavoured to include some classical elements in the music.
'Beyond the Mirror' is a three track EP and the release has been self financed, although I should put minds at rest by pointing out that the printing and presentation here is very professional.
Musically it is limited to three tracks which while they may not give a clear indication of exactly what the band are capable of do at least offer a hint of what is to come in the future.
The opening track 'River Running' seems to be something of a blend of AOR and modern progressive trends, and while production mix is not as strong as it might have been with the guitar work lacking presence in some
areas, I still like this song a lot! Particular points worthy of note are Griffiths' vocals, which have a warm texture that seems well suited to the task, and Lemke's keyboard playing, which flows well.
The classical style piano work in the mid section of the track is beautifully played and the jazzy guitar work that folows contrasts well against it.
'Premortal Dance' opens with another quiet piano section which lays down the foundation for the rest of the track. The song follows a fairly typical verse / chorus / verse / chorus structure, leading up to an
instrumental section before a final chorus.
This sequence is nice enough, although the chorus itself seems a little too indecisive and lacking drive. The song comes across best in the instrumental segment where the sound of the organ with building percussion is accomanied by some nice bass work before running into a smooth climbing guitar break. We come out of this into the final repeat of the chorus, which seems now to carry more conviction and ends the song well.
The final track is titled 'An End In Itself', and this is probably my favourite of the three tracks. The underlying keyboard work here is very much piano based, and the guitar work really gets a chance to come
more to the fore. Limited use of Mellotron towards the end of the track adds atmosphere without trying to dominate the overall feel of the piece and again Griffiths' vocals really seem to hit the spot.
All things considered this is a very promising opening release featuring some nicely written songs that are very rich in melody and, with the band now signed to the DVS label, I'm sure better things are to follow.
The band are currently working on their debut album release, 'Field of Names', and if all goes to plan this will be available in the Spring of 2001. In the meantime why not visit the band's web site where you can listen to a full MP3 of 'Premortal Dance' and order yourself a copy of this CD - it's worth checking out.
Simon 22nd November 2000
|
