Member:
Jonathan Pine
(Profile)
(All Album Reviews by Jonathan Pine)
Date:
10/7/2003
Format:
CD (Album)
Abismos del Tiempo (Abysses of Time) is the title of the stunning debut album by ATempo - a band from Argentina. The group was created in 2000. It has experienced some lineup changes since then. At present ATempo consists of: Mariela Gonzalez (lead vocal), Eduardo Aguirre (acoustic and electric guitars), Pablo Villanueva (bass), Hiro (piano and keyboards), and Claudio Fazio (drums). The work over Abismos del Tiempo took almost two years. In 2003 the CD finally appeared (Argentina- Record Runner: RR0 400, in Europe distributed by Musea). I must say, that I am most honored to have the pleasure to review this, unknown in my country yet, album. Although Abismos del Tiempo contains three independent histories ("Hero of the Solitude", "Mystical Rain" and "Jail of Dreams"), and a multi-part suite, it is a conceptual work exploring the rather somber side of human feelings connected with fate, loss and loneliness. The lyrics are sung entirely in Spanish, the mother tongue of the artists. Fortunately enough, the attached booklet features their English translation. The record opens up with a wonderful song called "Héroe de la Soledad" (Hero of the Solitude). At once you realize what an impressive and powerful color of voice Mariela has. After listening to the entire album you will have no doubt in your mind that she possess an incredible talent too. The same applies to the other ATempo members. They present a solid musicianship. With Mariela they managed to build a wonderful and engaging atmosphere. The approachable melodies found on the album will easily draw your attention and remain somewhere in your soul for a long time. The other great advantages of the album are delicate orchestral arrangements, neatly played guitar solos (sounding slightly heavy metal-like) and tasty acoustic parts. Closing the entire album “El Final” (The End) is a 47-minute long, monumental suite, which contains nine movements. It is an excellent composition. To me the whole album is an absolute masterpiece. I am sure that ATempo debut is one of the best releases of 2003 in Progressive Music.
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