PHI: Waves Over Vienna – Live at dasBACH

Austrian power prog trio PHI formed in 2006 only to break up and reform again in 2011. I first became familiar with the band with their last studio album Now The Waves Of Sound Remain released in 2014.

In the band are Markus Bratusa (vocals, guitar, programming), Arthur Darnhofer-Demar (bass, backing vocals) and Gabe Cresnar (drums, backing vocals). The album was recorded live at dasBACH, Vienna in April, 2015. The performance focuses on much of their last album Now The Waves Of Sound Remain but their other two studio albums are also touched upon.

The concert begins with the moody and atmospheric "Intro" where eerie and spacey effects build with increasing tension. The moody guitar rock of "Cashflow Prayer Answering Machine" is next with its biting guitar and cool riff progressions. If I was to hazard a guess I would think fans of Riverside would dig this. "Welcome Tomorrow" is another slab of mood rock with psychedelic guitar motifs and a nice chill out ambient section. The band incorporates lots of programming and post rock elements into their sound which certainly gives their music plenty of depth and layers. Bratusa's vocals are also very good. He has a full rich voice with a more laid back delivery that fits well with the band's arty post rock vibe.

Other highlights include the Pearl Jam-like "Exile" and the title track from their last album, a thirteen plus minute epic featuring moody guitar soundscapes, dramatic builds and powerful lead vocals.

The package also includes a DVD (same track listing as the CD) so if you've never seen the band perform live this will give you an idea of the energy they bring to the stage. The filming isn't the greatest I have seen but is still worth viewing as the band really brings it in a live setting.

If you are already a fan of the band you will definitely want this in your hands. If you are new to the band and like heavy, mood laden progressive rock, Waves Over Vienna just might gain a few fans.

Track Listing:
CD/DVD
1. Intro
2. Cashflow Prayer Answering Machine
3. Welcome Tomorrow
4. Tune In Zone Out
5. Revolution By Design
6. Behind A Veil Of Snow
7. Manager Of The Year
8. Wintersong
9. A Clear View
10. Exile
11. Clouds
12. Now The Waves Of Sound Remain
13. The Beginning Of The End

Added: April 27th 2016
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 1729
Language: english

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