Unearthed from the archives of Scandinavian Progressive Rock, this sole eponymous album by the Swedish group Alter Echo is a true hidden gem from the late 1970s, first released in 1997 by the French label Musea Records.
Formed by Hans Hagström and Ingemar Hill, the group delivers a highly refined Symphonic Progressive Rock, carried by the warm vocals of Micke Wedberg, the rich keyboards of Lars Guldbrand, the melodic bass of Heinrik Nordgren, and the subtle percussion of Pele Alsing. At the crossroads of the British sophistication of Genesis (A Trick of the Tail), Yes, or Gentle Giant, and the melancholic sensibility of Swedish pioneers like Kaipa and Atlas, the album seamlessly alternates between instrumental flourishes, Jazz-Classical nuances, and captivating vocal melodies. Sung primarily in Swedish—with occasional forays into English on tracks like the luminous “Daffodils“—this album offers an authentic and timeless immersion into the golden age of Nordic Progressive Rock.
An essential piece for any fan of Melodic Progressive Rock and vintage rarities.
Purchase “Alter Echo” on Bandcamp: https://musearecords.bandcamp.com/album/alter-echo
Tracklist:
01. Gulnat Vatten 06:03
02. Stämman 04:19
03. Eremiten 04:51
04. Innan Strax Före 04:32
05. Axel I Stan 03:28
06. Daffodils 03:02
07. Tänk Om 04:42
08. Oleg 05:33
09. Hem, Prelude 02:31
10. Hem 06:13
11. Jordbon 04:05
12. Falska Banor 06:56
Lineup:
Micke Wedberg Vocals
Lars Guldbrand / Keyboards
Heinrik Nordgren / Bass
Pele Alsing / Drums, Percussion
With the participation of founding members Hans Hagström and Ingemar Hill.
Recorded in the late 1970s (Sweden). Original release: 1997 – Musea Records.