Brothers Andy Lawton and Brian Donkin and their neo-prog band, Final Conflict (FC) have captured their energetic live essence in a new DVD, Another Moment in Time. I must admit FC managed to have completely slipped under my radar and for that I, apologize.
The opening track was picked for obvious reasons as it has an opus beginning and feel – "Solitude," from their 2006 release Simple, is a solid aural plodder that initiates their talents in precise harmonies and tasty guitar work. The visuals are crisp, clear and not rife with fog machines and explosions, giving the viewer a point of view as if being right on stage with the band. The driving rhythm of "The Following" also from their Simple release, is my favorite as it features the band truly having fun with their own material. Beautiful and colorful washes of synth and bass are augmented by dynamic and signature PRS guitar. The band does well with playing live with midi loops in the number "Stop." Impressive "less is more" guitar work from Donkin is features throughout. "The Janus" is the most dramatic this performance gets as Donkin channels an evil wizard antagonist in the same vein as Peter Gabriel in "Supper's Ready."
It is clear that the music takes center stage here and not a slick production of smoke and mirrors to cover up any weaknesses. In this world of flash and flurry, it is refreshing to see a band that is not afraid to keep it simple, much the way Pink Floyd and Marillion have in the past. For a non-mainstream production, this DVD has stellar visuals and fantastic sound recordings.
Track Listing
1. Solitude
2. Stand Up
3. The Following
4. Miss Demeanour
5. Stop
6. Rebellion
7. Can't Buy Experience
8. All Alone
9. The Janus
10. Waiting for a Chance
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
