Phideaux

We have received no less than three CDs from this band. The records have been released during the last three yeas, and Phideaux Xavier and his co-musicians present intelligent and playful pop-rock with strong psychedelic and progressive elements.

"Ghost Story" from 2004 is mainly guitar-based with a bit of organ and synth. Stylistically, it is slightly in the same vein as Porcupine Tree, and although Phideaux doesn't quite match Steven Wilson for finesse, the music is refreshing, not least because he is a very skillful composer. The arrangements and production are also of a very high standard.

On "Chupacabras" (2005), the sound is supplemented by piano, mellotron and woodwind. The music is heavier and more "gloomy", and the pop elements are more subdued. The almost 21 minute long seven-piece title cut takes us through many themes and moods, from the pop-ish, via energetic guitar solos to the ultra-symphonic. At the same time, the music is melodic and eccessible, ensuring that they never end up in self-indulgence. Chupacabras is ann album where the band has collected tracks that did not fit other albums - for musical and not quality reasons.

On "313" the band is back in a nicer mood, but still with detours into "prog country" and other exciting places. Refreshing pop-psychedelic tracks with simpler arrangements, often piano-based, always whole-hearted and tasteful. This is probably the album (of the three) with the most satisfactory compositions - and from time to time they reminded me a bit of Rocket Scientists.

Phideaux is a band comprising both talent and ideas, something that is quite a rare find in today's music market. Give them a chance!