Hardscore ‎– Surf, Wind And Desire (2000, CD, Belgium)

Tracklist:
1. Prelude to surf, wind and desire (3:12)
2. Crab meets crab (3:24)
3. Kite control (7:19)
4. Gale force seven (5:52)
5. BSKRZ (14:23)
6. The creep from the deep (10:51)
7. Cod (5:26)
8. The diver and the shark (4:35)
9. Surf, no wind and desire (5:53)
10. Burnin' off love (4:57)

Musicians:
Maï / lead vocals
Frank Nuyts / programmings, Korg O1W, marimba, backing vocals
Frank Debruyne / Soprano & Tenor saxophone, backing vocals
Koen Van Overberghe / Korg M1, Roland U-220, backing vocals
Iris De Blaere / Yamaha Grantouch
Maarten Standaert / electric bass
Jan De Smet / drums


This unique Belgian band provides adventurous, challenging chamber music in the RIO tradition, played with humour (both lyrical and musical) and by expert musicians. They are headed by classical composer Frank Nuyts who assisted by his wife and pianist Iris De Blaere, their mezzo-soprano daughter Maï (who sounds a lot like Kate Bush) and five other musicians contributing some keyboards, drums, saxophone, electric bass and various percussion instruments.

Nuyts, who wanted to bridge the gap between commercial and classical music, has obviously attained his goal with the excellent albums the band has put out since 1998. All three feature intricate and intelligent compositions not devoid of a certain Zappa-esque quirkyness, blending chamber music with classical, jazz, pop and rock, all sounding fresh and delightful. The combination of electric and acoustic instruments adds an interesting texture as does Maï's ever-present and beautiful voice.

Fans of SOFT MACHINE, HENRY COW, HATFIELD AND THE NORTH as well as HAPPY THE MAN ought to check this band out. (progarchives)