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WORK OF ART
Framework

Frontiers (2014)
Rating: 8/10

It’s nice to review a rather summery opus when on the fringes of a dreary winter. Framework is the third platter from Swedish rockers Work Of Art and as expected it once again revisits the classic rock sounds of Toto, Journey et al. Soft, warm and cosy by design, Framework – the follow-up to 2011’s In Progress – is at times a spine-shuddering piece of art that lives up to its title as it once again provides sprightly structures and subtle edges.

The ingredients to this comforting pie are supplied by Lars Säfsund (vocals), Robert Säll (guitars, keyboards; W.E.T.) and Herman Furin (drums). As the press release for this opus states, Framework is the “logical next step” for the trio, and comes six years after the impressive 2008 debut Artwork.

For me, this new affair is a decent progression but sees the band still more than adept at creating soaring vocal melodies and toying with that classic AOR sound and yet injecting an extra vigour and shine which truly illuminates tracks such as ‘Shout Till You Wake Up’, the gorgeous ‘Time To Let You Go’ and ‘The Machine’. These are songs which display all the characteristics one would associate with AOR in that keyboards are deft sprinkles which drift like clouds of persuasion over that driving guitar sound. The percussion is solid yet not too intrusive, and above all Lars Säfsund’s vocals are versatile enough to handle both the steelier aspects and softer passages.

Most of the tracks on offer blend that sturdy, dynamic guitar rush and lush sectors of melody, the prime example being the aforementioned ‘The Machine’ which offers a fantastic solo, a delicate harmonious chorus, and yet a constant rush of joy. Elsewhere, ‘How Do You Sleep At Night?’ offers a jabbing keyboard and riff double-team before struttin’ like some typically 80s American drama soundtrack and is just great to rock along to. And then we have another string of uptempo journeys; the best of these being ‘Can’t Let Go’ with its steady rhythmic plod and sensual vocal display which adds an extra dose of soul to proceedings.

Framework doesn’t rely on sugary gimmicks or extra layers of cheese to succeed, and actually sounds like a rather sincere outpouring of emotion from this talented trio with each feeling channelled via those upbeat drums, refreshing guitar tones and heartfelt vocal qualities. As AOR albums go this is one that we’d expect to be pleasant on the ears, but the mix of pop-edged sentimentality and stronger passages means that Work Of Art has created an engaging, genuine experience that should appeal to a wide audience.

Neil Arnold

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