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Akritas — Akritas
(Si Wan SRMC 0062, 1976/1997, CD)

by Mike McLatchey, Published 1995-11-01

Akritas Cover art

One of the few Greek progressive bands that was on a fairly big label, Akritas (the English spelling) was in spirit probably closest to the rich and fertile wave of the 70s Italian scene. Close to bands like Osanna in the way they fused various musical styles together (although sounding nothing like them) Akritas has an interesting sound that reminds me of many bands, yet not being particularly derivative of any one. Classical structures dominate, reminiscent of similar groups such as ELP or Le Orme, although lacking the overblown pretentious qualities of the first and the subtle elegance of the latter. Swing jazz occupies the floor sometimes, as do rock and fusion and there are elements of more stranger styles that remind me of Gracious. The music even moves on to Popol Vuh realms with Danny Fichelscher like guitar. All in all it makes for a difficult album and a sort of haphazard patchwork, but further listenings eventually make it a rewarding one.

Filed under: Reissues, Issue 8, 1997 releases, 1976 recordings

Related artist(s): Akritas

 

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