Lldv_2014

Italian band LOGOS was formed back in 1996, and released an initial two albums the next few years before entering a lengthy phase of inactivity as recording artists, and from what I understand much of this period consisted of the band going through numerous line-up changes. Some thirteen years later Logos marked their return with their third full length production, “L’enigma della Vita”, which was released through Italian label Andromeda Relix in 2014.

Logos initially started out as a band performing covers of progressive rock from the golden age of Italian prog I understand, and at least their earlier albums have seen them placed inside the context of those bands as well, a small niche in the progressive rock scene where certain bands are described as Rock Progressivo Italiano, abbreviated as RPI. The defining features of the bands placed within that segment is that they tend to be vintage symphonic in expression, have an eclectic stylistic register, and that if vocals are present they convey lyrics in the Italian language. Logos as of 2014 isn’t a perfect match for that particular context to my ears, as their style doesn’t revolve around the vintage or classic era sound, but apart from that this album fits quite nicely into this minor niche.

The symphonic qualities of the material is a mainstay throughout, and the band does have an eclectic take on it too. Arguably with a different scope than others, and the eclectic tendencies mainly so within a symphonic context. This isn’t a band that incorporates multiple and vastly different style details into their compositions, but they do incorporate multiple variations of symphonic progressive rock into their brew.

The most common expression is a dampened, dark variety revolving around careful dark toned guitars, vintage keyboards and organ, with strong similarities to Pink Floyd, a band mentioned by Logos as influential. They do explore this sound in a more jubilant and expressive manner as well, on those occasions ending up with a mood and atmosphere closer to what German band Eloy did in the late 70’s, and on occasion modern synths and electronics flavor the arrangements in a manner that sounds closer to a band like Porcupine Tree. Another variation see the band use more atmospheric laden keyboards, at times supplemented with the good, old Mellotron, for an expression that to my ears is a bit closer to what a band like IQ have explored over the years. All of these subtle variations over a style foundation, without any dramatic differences between them, but with nuances of a less or more easily defined difference that invokes different associations.

There’s also room for darker, more brooding arrangements of course, the classic progressive rock bands from Italy in the 70’s were at times employed to produce the soundtrack to thriller and horror movies, and the musical legacies of that expression is another feature that occasionally appears on this album, most likely to the delight of fans of bands such as Goblin. That Logos also find room for a couple of jazz-oriented lead motifs one of those additional details that will further delight those with a soft spot for the more eclectic Italian progressive rock bands I imagine.

Logos have made a good job of developing material that are compelling too, the compositions smoothly moves between various phases and arrangements with a natural, organic flow, always with a good ear for when some minor variations or tweaks are needed and with plenty of room for engaging solo sequences of various kinds. Occasional flute soloing adds a lighter touch to the material as well, and there’s a good balance between the delicate passages and ones with more of a majestic general expression. A well made album all in all, and a production that may well find favor among fans of symphonic progressive rock and neo progressive rock just as much as it does to those with a strong affection for bands sorted under the RPI niche.

My rating: 80/100