Finch - Glory of the Inner Force / Galleons of Passion (2012)

This Russian bootleg disc brings together the first and last Finch recordings, 'Glory of The Inner Force' (1975) and 'Galleons of Passion'. Finch was a Dutch group formed in the Hague region of the Netherlands by brothers Peter and Paul Vink (bass and keyboards respectively), Beer Klaaase (drums) and Joop Van Nimwegen (guitar). By the time of the first album, Paul Vink had left the band and was replaced by Cleem Determeijer.
'Glory of The Inner Force' is nothing short of instrumental fury in many passages. Every member in the band has a chance to shine on this recording, from Joop's nimble guitar lines, to Peter's growly bass lines, to Cleem's masterful work on the keys. There are many mood and time signature changes, so get ready to be surprised.
'Galleons of Passion' is a bit more subdued recording, as Beer Klaaase and Cleem Determeijer had both left to be replaced by Hans Bosboom and Ad Wammes respectively. Be warned, this changed the whole dynamic of the group, as the sound was more straightforward. Less complex time signatures abound, Joop goes from playing blazing guitar lines to playing a two note riff through the first half of a song. Ad Wammes and Hans Bosboom do a fine job, but it is clear from the outset that they are not quite as gifted as their predecessors.
Not bad sound for a bootleg CD and fans of focus, Camel and Solution will no doubt find them enjoyable. If you are looking for high octane instrumental progressive rock or mellow laid back progressive rock, this CD will give you quite a bit of both.