Playing the Universe by Sonic Pulsar is an amazing tour de force of guitars and keyboards. As if Sonic Pulsar wasn't a cool enough name, the CD art (both insert and CD label) are amazing! Sonic Pulsar consists of Hugo Flores on vocals, guitars and keyboards, Carlos Mateus on acoustic guitars as well as synthesizers, and Nuno Ferrierra on bass guitar.

     Portugese vocalist Hugo Flores has a rich voice suited for this type of rock, which is similar to that of bands like Rush and Yes. But it's not only Flores' voice that had me hooked on Playing the Universe, it was the amazing artistry shown via keyboards and guitars found in each track.

     By far, the best song on this entire CD is completely instrumental - Dreamscape. It lives up to its name, having a dreamy quality enhanced by keyboards, synthesizers, and guitars mixed to a drum beat that keeps your head bobbing in time-easily usable in any movie today as an accompaniment to opening credits. In fact, many of the tracks on this CD could be used in movies as background music.

     The lyrics, written by Hugo Flores and Carlos Mateus are both artistic and filled with meaning. Although the age of communication / Is bursting with energy / It seems we don't agree / It seems that we don't / Understand each other - Wasted. Some people help / Some people kill / Some die to save another / If you had the strength / Would you make history? / Or let it like it will be? - Perspective.

     The only criticism I have is probably something that really can't be helped. Flores' Portuguese accent lends to some interesting pronunciations of certain lyrics. However, it doesn't take anything away from this album. Here's hoping that Sonic Pulsar finds its way to a mainstream station near you!

     Send your comments and or questions about this article to Wildkarrde3@hotmail.com.

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• Hugo Flores - Atlantis

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