The VSP Projekt recording is an interesting mix of progressive rock and fusion, as well as atmospheric music. The sounds are unique, as each of the musicians have themselves a very unique style of playing. The material may surprise some, as it is more restrained than many would expect from this set of high-class musicians. But that creates an excellent total sound for the project.

The band recorded the LP in 1988 and it was released in 1989. Years later, it was re-mastered and re-released in 1996 on CD with a re-recorded version of the final track, "Kuulaps" (Moonchild).

The first track, "Mees sarvega" (Man with a Horn), is a rather typical fusion song. The guitar lead by Riho Sibul is catchy and fun, as well as the fretless bass of Raul Vaigla poking through. The playing is excellent throughout the song, and the rhythm section of Vaigla and drummer Andrus Vaht is featured nicely in the middle when they get grooving.

The second track, "Oktoober, oktoober" (October, October) is a quiet change from the previous. Its beauty comes from the softness and atmosphere, where the fretless bass of Vaigla takes an emotional lead. One of the best fretless bass solos by the well-known bassist.

Next is "Tuulepealne" (Windswept Land), another catchy fusion piece. Vaigla's bass line is ever-present in the song, with drummer Vaht going into some fantastic stuff--especially the drum solo in the middle. A pretty typical but good fusion piece.

The fourth track is "Mäluäng" (Anguish of Memories), a more agressive fusion piece. Guitarist Sibul sounds more like himself on this piece, shredding a bit more like his work in In Spe and Kaseke. The keyboards of Aare Põder also stands out, especially in an early solo. Lots of fantastic playing by the whole band.

The fifth track is "Hilineja" (Latecomer), a cool little song with a funky beat, almost reggae in feel. The long song features a cool keyboard riff throughout, with guitars dancing delicately in the background. However, that changes when Sibul again lets the guitar solo rip.

Finally, the recording ends with the quiet "Kuulaps" (Moonchild). The soft song features some of the most beautiful guitar playing by Sibul. The piece was re-recorded in 1996 for the release of the CD.

Overall, this recording may surprise some who know the musicians from the top Estonian prog rock and fusion bands: guitarist Riho Sibul was with In Spe and Kaseke; bassist Raul Vaigla with Radar; keyboardist Aare Põder also with Radar; and drummer Andrus Vaht with Kaseke, Ruja and Mess. It is not breakneck stuff and if you're looking for these guys to shred, then VSP Projekt is not your cup of tea. But if you're into a nice, solid work that has focus and meaning, then you'll like this.

Mel Huang
Tallinn, Estonia
3 May 1999

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