Unifaun
Unifaun Independent

by Franco Wissa
Staff Writer

Comments: While obvious references to Genesis must be made, (as the band members met at a forum for fans of this great band) but digging deep into the underscore of the tracks heard here, one quickly gets hints of the long forgotten sounds of Caravan, Kayak, Camel and early King Crimson. Solidly played and beautifully arranged are the highlights "To the Green Faerie," the amazing "Mr. Marmaduke and the Minister," the Peter Gabriel-ish vocals of "Swinger's Party," the gentle harmonic guitars of "Rehacksis," the poignant "A Way Out," the lively "Welcome to the Farm," the pompous "Finistere," the drum heavy "Maudlin Matter," and the stunning piano of "Bon Apart."

What indeed a rare find. With a sound that is simplistic, never over indulging, Unifaun has released what very well could, or at least should, give them a legion of fans not yet wanting to call the soft progressive sounds of the early 70s a thing of the past. Listen closely to the vocals of Nad Sylvan, while certainly sounding like a young Peter Gabriel, there is also a talent heard here that shows that he has the ability to make his vocals soar above the music, but when needed to, pull back, and allow the instruments to shine through. Certainly not an easy task, as it part of the lead vocalist to want his voice to be heard. And while that is true, a good vocalist also has the ability to make his voice another instrument and become part of the harmony. Such are the vocals that are heard here. And for that, this band is to be applauded.

Here is a band that knows their instruments. They know how to play them well, and certainly have used the arsenal of synthesizers, acoustic and electric guitars, pianos, percussion and special effects at their disposal. Perhaps in places the sound could have been bigger, bolder and louder, really though, throughout this release there is very little to find fault with. Even the 14 minute "Quest for the Last Virtue," that showcases the band member's ability to take on the many roles of vocalist, percussionist, musicians playing several instruments is all brought together by some concrete songwriting. All most coming across as a theatrical play, "Quest for the Last Virtue," is a collecting of feelings and emotions that adeptly brings out certain passages and bars. It is mesmerizing in parts, cheerful and upbeat in others, soulful, moody and at 8:28 when a synthesizer weaves around an acoustic guitar, the sound becomes intense with heavy sentiment.

With a CD that has admirably captured the quintessence sounds some of the best prog rock bands of long ago, Unifaun has done themselves proud.

Musicians:
Nad Sylvan - vocals, bass, guitar, keyboards, drums
Bonamici - keys bass, percussion

Track Listing:
Birth of a Biggie
To the Green Faerie
Mr. Marmaduke and the Minister
Swinger's Party
Rehacksis
Quest fot the Last Virtue
A Way Out
Finistere
Welcome to the Farm
Maudlin Matter
Bon Apart
End-of-Fin

Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10