Harvest: Underground Community

Harvest hail from Barcelona, Italy and have recently released their first album Underground Community. Players include Monique van der Kolk (vocals), Jordi Amela (keyboards), Jordi Prats (guitar), Alex Ojea (drums) and Roger Vilageliu (bass). The band play a sort of alternative brand of rock with some progressive moments scattered here and there. The songs mostly vary from slow to mid-tempo but on occasion do get a little heavier. Monique van der Kolk has a strong voice with good control and sounds even a bit sultry at times. Many of the softer sections have an atmospheric flavour provided by keys and guitars. The band produces a clean sound and is a pleasant listen, just do not expect overly complex arrangements. That is not what this band is about. Harvest takes a more subtle approach, preferring slow build ups and refined playing.

In my opinion the album's best song is "No Return" with Floydish guitar ala Dark Side of the Moon and has the band sounding their most progressive. Other highlights include "The Story of Tim Ballas" featuring Floyd-like acoustic strumming and a pretty good guitar solo and "Mara" where subdued guitar riffs turn more intense with a little more bite. The short title track is a moody piece with atmospheric keys and effects, interesting percussion sounds and a smattering of piano. The band also do a cover version of Marillion's "Waiting to Happen" showcasing a fabulous crescendo of keys and guitars.

Upon first hearing this album I was not overly blown away, but further listens really brought out some of the subtle nuances and distinct atmospheres this music contains. There are also a few pretty melodies to be had a long the way. If the band is willing to take a few more chances on their next release they really could be on to something. Still, a solid effort indeed.

Track Listing:
1. Autumn leaves (3:44)
2. Beyond the Desert (3:38)
3. No Return (5:37)
4. The Story of Tim Ballas (4:50)
5. Mara (4:51)
6. Underground Community (1:37)
7. Change Life (4:22)
8. Post Disaster (4:23)
9. The Horizon (5:20)
10. Waiting to Happen (6:17)
11. She Tries (4:41)
12. Night Cones Down (2:51)
13. Interrupted Broadcast (3:46)

Added: January 16th 2010
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 3798
Language: english

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