Dutch neo-proggers’ joyous reunion.
After building a strong reputation in their native Netherlands in the 90s and early 00s, For Absent Friends went on hiatus after 2006 album Square One. But after reuniting with a new line-up for a tribute show to their founder member Rene Bacchus, they got the bug again, and on this new record there’s a re-energised buzz about them.
While they drifted into soft rock territory at times in their original incarnation, this is a proudly proggy affair. Yet they also punctuate their sound with enticing melodies while still having a high old time flexing their instrumental muscles. Spiky synth motifs, freewheeling instrumental breaks and big hooky choruses, like the one found on 58 People, grab the attention. Even the jazzrock instrumental workout, Keytar, is as…
You're reading a preview of
Prog (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue 133