Search - Univers Zero :: The Hard Quest

The return of the kings of dark R.I.O

Mathias Jonsson | Enköping, Sweden | 01/19/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This is the album of the reunited Belgian R.I.O progband Univers Zero. I was quite excited to get this one as I am a big UZ fan. I was delighted to hear that oboist Michel Berckmans was back. So how is the music? If you haven't heard anything of this group I'd rather recommend "1313" or "Ceux du Dehors". The music on this album tries to return to that of these albums, and succeeds sometimes, as with the first track "Vieux-a-Manants" which sounds medieval, with the typical use of harmonium. The musicians all play well throughout, but I think that the album's weakness is the compositions which lack the passion, melancholy and darkness of their classic albums. They sound more like the somewhat dismal pieces of Daniel Denis'solo albums. Still it's a decent album that is worth having, hopefully Daniel Denis and co. will be more succesful on their next album."

Welcome return? That is not return but new step

Dmitry Danilov | Novosibirsk,Russia | 02/17/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I cannot agree with previous review.It is obvious that this album features more mature style of penning then USED or HEATWAVE.Whats about three first classic albums.Yes-they are more darker and intense,but sometimes volunatary naive.Denis and Co were young people and gothic themes were close to there hearts.Now they are not so young and music become more soft and light.To my opinion it is not fail.People changes with years behind their necks and music also changes. About music-very delicate tunes with strong eastern european touch.Very Accomplished playing from all members.Thoughtful,delighting... I highly reccomend this album to all open minds."