Brazilian instrumental Progressive Rock act The LAB Experience published the official video for the track “A Long Time Ago” taken from self-titled album out on February 05, 2025 via OSKAR Records. Watch the video throughthe YouTube player below:
Progressive rock is often defined by intricate compositions, virtuosic performances, and a willingness to push boundaries. The LAB Experience, led by keyboardist Luiz Alvim (Swappers Eleven), takes this philosophy to a new level by completely omitting guitars-one of the genre’s most fundamental instruments. The result is an album that challenges conventions while maintaining the depth and complexity that fans of progressive music crave.
Originating in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, The LAB Experience represents the natural evolution of Alvim’s solo instrumental and fusion work. By embracing a “one-man band” concept, Alvim reimagines Progressive and Fusion Music through the lens of keyboards, using them not just as a supporting instrument but as the foundation of the compositions. This approach makes the album stand out in a genre where guitars often dominate the soundscape.
The album consists of a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of previous works, enriched by contributions from various guest musicians. Among the standout tracks:
- “m.a.r.i.k.” – Featuring Rafael Marcolino on drums, this track showcases Alvim’s bass skills while demonstrating a rich interplay between rhythm and melody.
- “Parallel Dimensions” – A revisitation of an earlier piece by Sleepwalker Sun, featuring Jorge Mathias on bass and Rodrigo Martinho on drums, highlighting a fresh take on familiar material.
- “The Mind” – Originally from Sequaz, a band led by drummer Alex Curi, this track emphasizes intricate rhythmic structures and atmospheric depth.
- “Astral Zenith” – A track blending classic rock elements with Enrico Rossetti’s dynamic drumming and Alvim’s bass work, offering a fusion of nostalgic and modern progressive sounds.
- “The End” – The album’s closing track is an introspective ballad that balances melody and weight, providing a fitting conclusion to this adventurous musical journey.
With the release of the lead single, “A Long Time Ago,” The LAB Experience signals not just a departure from tradition but an invitation to explore new musical dimensions. Fans of Progressive and Fusion Music looking for something refreshingly different will find plenty to appreciate in this boundary-pushing release.
Purchase the album on Bandcamp: https://oskarrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-lab-experience-cd
Tracklist:
01. A Long Time Ago (4:22)
02. M.a.r.i.k. (4:50)
03. Parallel Dimensions (7:31)
04. The Mind (6:22)
05. Future Dreaminess (7:31)
06. Astral Zenith (10:20)
07. The End (3:37)
Lineup:
Luiz Alvim (Swappers Eleven) / Keyboards and Bass
With:
Paulo Gustavo / Bass (1)
Arild Broter / Drums (1)
Rafael Marcolino / Drums (2)
Jorde Mathias / Bass (3,4)
Rodrigo Martinho / Drums (3,5)
Alex Curi / Drums (4)
Franscisco Falcon / Bass (5)
Enrico Rossetti / Drums (6)
