The Dutch progressive rock duo Sylvium started their partnership in 2010. Fred Boks (bass, synths, drums) and Ben van Gastel (guitars, composer) have now released their debut EP named Purified. And what a fine debut this is! A triptych consisting of three instrumental tracks that provide over 21 minutes of real fine progressive ambient orientated rock. The duo has been influenced by Steve Wilson − who isn't − OSI and Anathema, so they say, but I think that Riverside and the album Hells Canyon by Rockenfield/Speer have been more influential. Of course, you may notice that they didn't go to the Bahama's to record this one, but for a homemade product this EP sounds very good. The fine riffs, the powerful drum work and the spooky ambient music make me want to play these three tracks again and again. Together with some nice artwork and a well-built site, I think this is one of the better Dutch EP prog rock releases of 2012. It's just a pity that it's all over after 21 minutes, but then again: more can also be less. Well done! **** Gert Bruins (edited by Peter Willemsen) Where to buy? |
