QUIDAM: Saiko (PROGRESSIVE ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

For more than 15 years Quidam has made a name for itself on the progressive rock scene. "Saiko" is the sixth studio album of the Polish band, which takes advantage of the opportunity to return to writing in its mother tongue. In addition to this choice of language, the group has also changed the format of its compositions and abandoned long songs. However, as the tracks are strongly linked, "Saiko" should be approached as a whole. It is thus possible to speak of a concept album with a poetic vision of everyday life as its theme.

From a musical point of view, Quidam remains widely recognizable by its small flute touches, its clear percussions and the general atmosphere that the band likes to create. The arrangements and compositions have been deliberately purged of all superfluous effects. The 12 tracks (for more than 53 minutes) benefit from an impeccable mix.

From the very first listening, 'Walec', the only track in English, stands out by the presence of Natalia Grosiak. She adds a feminine touch to the vocals on a rather electric music. The amateurs of more muffled atmospheres will be able to appreciate the piano associated with a slow rhythm on 'sPoykanie' or the acoustic guitar and its chords slipped on the eponymous track. The bewitching 'Zima', based on a short synthetic motif repeated continuously, rises gradually in power, then explodes with the help of boosted drums and slightly saturated electric guitars.

Five years after "Alone Together", Quidam offers us an album that breaks slightly with their history. Disregarding the long sequels, "Saiko" is less progressive and more atmospheric, even pop. The whole production is mastered and the more commercial album seems to be aimed at a wider audience (at least in Poland). "Saiko" remains very correct and Quidam does not totally deny its style and influences. - Official website

QUIDAM

SAIKO

AUTRE LABEL

PROGRESSIVE ROCK