Machiavel - Mechanical Moonbeams (Remastered) (1978/2010)

This is probably their most symphonic album. A very good introduction to their catalogue if you want to discover this side of their work (which is the more interesting).
The mood is set with "Beyond The Silence". A very strong opener featuring bombastic keyboards and a very dynamic rhythmic section. Great song, indeed. "Summon Up The Strenght" is a bit more hectic. Machiavel will release several songs of this genre. Theme and rhythm changes are nice, but in this song it is a bit loose. Sounds as a collage of different short tunes. Keyboards are Supertramp-oriented (this was already to be noticed in the song "Jester"). The song ends up almost hard-rocking (which is not to dislike me).
Now, "Rope Dancer". The first Belgian hit from Machiavel. They will release several popular songs (amongst the Belgian fans). Each of them will have a good airing on Begian radios; and even if some of you might be irritated; I just like them a bunch. I guess that the very melancholic mood, some souvenirs from dancing parties... make this song special to me. So, you'll either press next or listen to it again after the first hearing. I hope the latter will be your choice.
"Rebirth" is not so pleasant. After an almost folkish, medieval intro for over two minutes, the song finally kicks a bit. But the melody is not strong, at times Machiavel will get an ELP-ish sound which is not convincing. The Banks-oriented finale ("Cinema Show) is very pleasant though.
"After The Crop" is probably the heights of their prog production. Again, the typical Machivel structure is there : complex rhythm changes thoughout these 7'52". Crescendo construction etc. It is just a beautiful song. Emotional and gentle during the intro, sounding as "Rope Dancer" a little later, and finally a true rock song during the second part. Another highlight.
Machiavel remains in the Genesis territory with "Mary", a sweet ballad full of romanticism. Nice acoustic guitar and some flute will automatically bring you back to "Trespass". But, that's fine with me. A tranquil moment. An apetizer for the closing number : "The Fifth Season" which has the classic Machiavel signature described earlier on. Another very good song to close this album.
This album is on par with "Jester". Although I prefer "Jester" by an inch, I will rate this album with four stars as well. Both works are recomended. Give them a try, you won't be deceived. That's a promise.
-- ZowieZiggy