Seventh Hell (Ars Nova, 2009)

This track by the Japanese band Ars Nova is a treat for those into powerful and dynamic symphonic rock. The Seventh Hell album (also titled La Vénus Endormie on the French market) was a turning point in this act's career, marking a substancial enhancement of their line up, adding new players to the original female trio, even if only the dummer Hazimo was credited as an official  member. This opening and title track is simply bombastic, a huge wall of sound where an apparent chaos is perfectly conducted and finalized to build up a well written and shapely instrumental composition. 

This cover art belongs to the French edition of the album.

Apparently, it seemed too explicit for the international market.

Two main themes and several pleasant interludes follow one another and lead the listener through a musical tour de force. All players show their skills, but no one impose herself (or himself). That's saying something, expecially in the prog rock genre! A moderate electronic touch supplements the traditional paraphernalia of a proper prog band. Of course, Keiko Kumagai shows once more her compositional skills and her keyboards wisely combine the individual sounds into an artistic unity.