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In Greek mythology the god Atlas is known for supporting the world
and the heavens. The Miami-based Little Atlas seems no lesser
determined to carry the world of prog upon their tiny shoulders.
Their music is a cross-stitch of influences from the seventies and
the contemporary prog scene.
On their
third
album “Wanderlust”, Little Atlas sounds like
a complete band. What makes it such a pleasure to listen to, are the
many surprises that keep your interest going. There is so much to
experience here! You get strong refrains and great ensemble playing,
and on top of it Steve Katsikas’s gorgeous voice mingles soul with
theatrical effect.
“The Ballad Of Eddie Wanderlust” starts off with strange sounds that
remind me of Pink Floyd’s “Signs Of Life”, before
getting straight into high gear. It is a great way in getting one’s
attention for the incoming refrain. Yes, these guys have thought
everything through here. The exciting duel between guitar and
Hammond is just one of many times this band shows their eagerness to
get noticed among the many prog acts these days.
“Higher” slows down a bit, but don’t let this fool you. Instead the
tension is built slowly but firmly towards some fine guitar and
keyboard soloing. ”Weariness Rides” gradually becomes the band’s
showcase for instrumental dexterity, while keeping it amusing all
the way. My absolute favourite comes in fourth with “The Prisoner”:
you can hear the band recalling Spock’s Beard or classic
Genesis, yet always carving out their own identity. Lots of
great instrumental moments here, developing very surprisingly and
thus sounding progressive in the truest sense! The track even ends
with a choir, short in length, yet big in effect.
“Home” soon gives way to the Mellotron, shaping a ballad but then
suddenly going up tempo. “On And On” and the closing “Mirror Of
Life” also switch gear often, in order to create different moods.
“Mirror Of Life” even adapts a kind of nostalgia by including piano
and violin. A tasteful closing section.
“Wanderlust” not only takes up where
its
fine
predecessor
“Surface Serene” left off. It offers a well balanced art rock with
lots of various movements. Complex yet catchy. With their
third
release,
this Miami band really takes a giant leap forward. Little Atlas
is confidently stepping to the front of the class. |
