Father of the Abyss by 7 Ocean

Album Review

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4.5

Stars

Father of the Abyss

7 Ocean

654

Belarus

"Father of the Abyss" by the Belarusian symphonic prog band 7 Ocean stands out as a formidable entry in the realm of progressive rock, marking their eighth and most impressive album to date. Spanning 77 minutes and comprised of 12 tracks, this album transcends language barriers with its rich musical landscapes and emotive compositions. Although the lyrics are in Russian, which adds an exotic texture and deepens the European ambiance of the album, the true power of "Father of the Abyss" lies in its ability to convey complex emotions and narratives through instrumentation and arrangement alone.

The album's concept, inspired by the haunting worlds of H.P. Lovecraft, delves into the psyche of a doomed sailor, but the story's specifics are less crucial for non-Russian speakers than the universal feelings it evokes. The mix of seven full tracks and five instrumental interludes captures a range of emotions, from the depths of despair to eerie tranquility. The interludes, varying from psychedelia to hard rock, serve as dream sequences that offer a glimpse into the sailor's tormented soul, effectively bridging the narrative gaps through music alone. This approach allows listeners to embark on their own interpretative journey, guided by the shifting moods and textures of the album.

If you’ve been unimpressed, or simply unaware, of 7 Ocean previously, “Father of the Abyss” is the album that will quite likely change your mind. You can hear they have stepped things up, and really put their heart, soul, experience, and talent into this album.

The craftsmanship of "Father of the Abyss" is evident in every aspect, from the layered compositions to the meticulous production. The collective efforts of band members Oleg Grinevich, Alexander Eletsky, Sergey Starosotsky, and Alexander Sophiex create a cohesive, immersive experience that speaks directly to the listener's emotions, bypassing linguistic limitations. The album's soundscapes are a testament to the band's ability to blend complex symphonic elements with the raw energy of progressive rock, making "Father of the Abyss" not only 7 Ocean's most accomplished work but also a universally accessible piece that resonates with the emotional core of each listener.

If you’ve been unimpressed, or simply unaware, of 7 Ocean previously, “Father of the Abyss” is the album that will quite likely change your mind. You can hear they have stepped things up, and really put their heart, soul, experience, and talent into this album.

The album is available via the Bandcamp link below, with “Name Your Price” pricing, so something everyone should pick up, supporting the band in what way you can and feel best. Definitely an album worth having in your symphonic prog library.

Tune in to Prog Radio to enjoy tracks from this captivating album, as well as hear it in this week’s "What’s New Proggy Cats?" show.

4.5 Stars