Hasse Froberg & Musical Companion: Powerplay (2012)

GLENN ASTARITA,

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

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Published: September 8, 2012

Hasse Froberg & Musical Companion: Powerplay

Track review of "Venice CA"

Hasse Froberg is the distinctive voice for Swedish progressive rock icon, The Flower Kings. In 2008 he formed Musical Companion and seemingly enjoys an observable comfort zone amid the artists' synergistic chemistry. Indeed, a conspicuous attribute that cannot be understated. With memorable material providing an added plus to the musicians' prominent technical abilities, the quintet sculpts driving pulses, synth-laced balladry, and classic prog rock into a dynamic set that holds its own on subsequent listens.

"Venice CA" is one of those anthem-like rockers keenly interspersed with Beach Boys type vocal harmonies, burgeoning synths, chunka-chunka guitar parts and pumping drums. Otherwise, the group transforms the piece into a straight-four vamp, spiced by Froberg's authoritative vocals, tinted with an ever-so-slight rasp, where he develops a symmetrical stance, bordering between grace and power.

Lead guitarist Anton Lindsjo's upper register solo adds a vibrant edge as the band churns out a potentially solid cover tune that may appeal to other rock outfits. Overall, Powerplay is a top-shelf product and should whet the appetites for the often-demanding prog advocates.

Personnel: Hasse Fröberg: lead vocals, rhythm guitar; Anton Lindsjö: lead guitar, backing vocals; Kjell Haraldsson: keyboards, backing vocals; Thomsson: bass, backing vocals; Ola Strandberg: drums, backing vocals.

Record Label: Reingold Records