Noa, Japan ***REISSUED***

Tri-Logic. 1987 Pam

***Reissued by Belle Antique Jun 2018

In the 1980s there were a lot of Japanese progressive bands flying well under the radar (a few examples would be Nishin, Dada, Heretic, Saisai Koubou, Orpheus, Picaresque of Bremen - and many more). Noa would have to be considered in this group of bands. Musically a strong guitar fronted fusion / King Crimson hybrid, with typical 1980s era sounding keys. I've seen one Heldon reference in researching, but I don't hear it myself. Good album and worth seeking out.

Priority: none

1/30/10; 6/20/18 (complete)

Ex Vitae, France ***REISSUED***

Ex Vitae. 1978 private

***Reissued by Musea, Jun 2018 No bonus tracks unfortunately

At times, Ex Vitae are at the peak of the French jazzy progressive rock genre, recalling such luminaries as Moving Gelatine Plates and Ma Banlieue Flasque. The complex counterpoint rhythms, fuzz guitar, flute, violin, the "je ne sais quoi" attitude. But alas, it's not all so consistent, as there's some aimless free jazz and a couple of pointless experimental bits that show the band tried too hard to be artsy. Still, about 75% of the album is splendid, and worth a reissue for that. One can only hope for more great tracks hidden in the vaults.

Priority: 3

2/18/11 (new entry); 6/19/18 (complete)

Sukellusvene, Finland ***REISSUED***

Vesi- Ja Lintumusiikkia. 1979 Love

***Reissued by Svart, Jun 2018

Moved to UMR

Priority: 2

11/11/09 (new entry); 6/17/18 (complete)