Not many people would think that a prog rock scene would exist in the country of Bahrain, but thanks to the band Osiris one is certainly in the record books. Osiris recorded three albums in the early 80's (later to be re-released on Musea) before taking a bit of a break. In 1991 the band got back together, and the result is this fine live document, finally being released today, once again by the good folks at Musea.
If you are not familiar with Osiris (and there's a good chance that you are not), the band plays a very melodic and lyrical style, much like Camel or mid period Genesis, that features the passionate guitar work of Mohamed Alsadeqi, lush keyboards from two players, and strong vocals from Sabah Alsadeqi. Of the CD's eight tracks, half are previously unreleased, while the others are taken from the three studio albums. Here, in a live format, the songs have more energy, and definitely have taken on a more symphonic style. The wonderful "Medley from "Tales of the Divers" is a ten-minute piece that crafts catchy guitar licks and various synths, while the track "Fantasy" seems like a homage to Camel, and features Mohamed Alsadeqi's lyrical guitar playing, much in the style of Andrew Latimer. A few of the bands stronger tracks from their studio albums make an appearance, such as "Reflections" and "Lost and Found", and both are spirited and polished live versions that breathe new energy into the original vision that might have been intended for them.
According to the liner notes, Osiris has two new recordings in the works, both to be concept albums. This should be a real treat for progressive rock lovers, as judging by this live recording, this is a band that has grown leaps and bounds, and is ready to make the jump into more recognized prog waters.
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