Norwegian progsters Adventure give us part two of their Tales of Belle duology to conclude the story of nineteenth century mass murderer and serial killer Belle Gunness who from poor beginnings in Norway made her way to America for a spree of killings and a quest for wealth as a result.
She met her end in a fire…..or did she…..That’s what Tales of Belle Part 2 looks at – how Belle’s horrific crimes brought her wealth and her questionable death in a fire – questionable as it was never confirmed.
The tale is told very well in the lyrics and follows a similar musical thread to Tales of Belle Part 1 (review here).
That glorious mixture of 1970s style Uriah Heep inspired mixture of Box-style riffs, Hensley-like Hammond organ swells and synths with a bit of folksy stuff thrown in there too. Clive Nolan turns up to do a spot of brief narration.
Overall a well put together and well performed album complimenting part one of the saga. It is a little darker and brooding than part 1 – understandable given the dark subject matter – though that doesn’t detract from the enjoyment. Quite the contrary.
The atmospherics make it a little bit sinister though they do punch in with some meaty rockers none more so than Confession.
It’s very Uriah Heep. The Easy Living’ style riff, use of Hammond swells and eerie synth stabs, the guitar solo which channels Mick Box. Great stuff. Have a listen.
Whilst the Heep influence is a running theme through both Tales of Belle albums that’s no bad thing in my opinion speaking (or rather typing….) as an old Heep fan myself.
Adventure, whilst clearly being influenced by the classic ‘70s style stuff they certainly have enough ability and talent to put together two excellent albums covering a tricky historical concept doing so as skilfully as they have.
Must check out some of their earlier albums – as well as look forwards to what Adventure do next.
>> ADVENTURE TALES OF BELLE PART 2 ON AMAZON <<