The Russian band Vespero has established itself in recent years as one of the leaders in the field of Experimental Progressive. The new album ‘De Ludo Globi’ was released on December 01, 2023 via Clostridium Records (Vinyl), VMS (CD, Cassette) and contains 2 epic tracks of over 20 minutes each. The album actually consists of the track “De Ludo Globi” divided into two parts, the first of which occupies the first side of the vinyl. Reviewing such long tracks and complex works is not easy, but as far as I am concerned it is always very enjoyable, especially if the quality is as high as in this case. A succession of intertwining instruments and layers and modulations of melodies. Solo inserts and fine work with effects create atmospheres somewhere between Psychedelia, 70s Kruatrock, forays into Jazz and of course a marked dose of Experimental. A continuous succession of tempo changes, with the intensity increasing as the song progresses and the central theme evolves, admirably developed by this ensemble of artists adept at enhancing their compositional and performing technique. The second side containing “De Ludo Globi – Pars duo” immediately plunges us into a very rhythmic style with a killer bassline carrying the rhythm section. The horns offer enveloping and technical melodies and inserts, while intertwined with the guitar and keyboards give a spatial and futuristic touch to the sound. The tempo changes are a real added value to the development of this suite, whose long duration allows the band to range through all the characteristics that characterise its style. Between Jazz, an ethnic touch given by the violin, Progressive, Kraut and Experimental, the track remains very intense, technical and elaborate, accompanying us for 20 minutes of pure pleasure. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Vespero are one of the leading lights in Experimental Prog and this album once again confirms the good things heard in their previous works. Another thick, intense and very elaborate record release with refined and complex compositions that enhance the band’s tactics. A recommended listen for all lovers of the more Experimental side of Prog music, between Krautrock, Space and forays into Jazz.
Tracklist
01. De Ludo Globi – Pars una (20:05)
02. De Ludo Globi – Pars duo (20:23)
Lineup
Ivan Fedotov / Drums, Percussion
Arkady Fedotov / Bass, Synth, Noises, Sampler
Alexander Kuzovlev / Guitars
Alexey Klabukov / Keys, Synths, Sampler, Trumpet, Winds Arrangement
Vitaly Borodin / Violin, Kalimba, Sampler
With:
Alexey Esin / Tenor Sax, Soprano Sax, Flute
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