Long Fin Killie
Houdini

Three albums set and enshrined in the midst of the 1990s, dedicated to three figures who died early and became icons in their own way; chronologically (in terms of album release) Harry Houdini, Rodolfo Valentino, and Amelia Earhart: this is the musical legacy of Long Fin Killie, a Scottish band led by multi-instrumentalist Luke Sutherland and supported by other outstanding musicians.

Three absolutely not bad albums where the debut, dated 1995, acquires the title of a great gem of their career. It's truly difficult to think that an album like this was practically forgotten, even though it must be said that other bands of the period managed to produce albums of absolute value, only to disappear and become a faint memory carried forward by the few who loved them at the time (another example is Spain, whose best album coincidentally was released in the same year as "Houdini". I refer to the review here by DonJunio for further clarification). Harry Houdini was known for his ability to free himself from any kind of trap or physical impediment, such as chains and straitjackets: his talent seemed supernatural, even though he exposed self-proclaimed magicians and mediums and was known as one of the staunch enemies of spiritualism. The album seems to be permeated by that same atmosphere surrounding the character of the title: a dark mysticism always covered by stylistic rationality. Thus the drums are always in the background, an incessant noise shaken and unmasked by violins, sax, and fierce electric guitar distortions. Inside, you can find many references; it would be arduous to list them even because then everyone may favor one based on what they feel. The work of David Turner on the drums is remarkable, Philip Cameron electrifies with violent and rhythmic guitar strokes, but it's Sutherland who completes everything thanks to his voice and remarkable ability as a multi-instrumentalist, as every track is enriched by various different instruments, from the organ to the mandolin.

What remains after? A show dense with plot twists, vibrant and dynamic with a spectacular final climax (the last piece, "Unconscious Gangs of Men", with its 14 minutes represents the peak of the entire album), almost like a magic number worthy of the best Houdini. In the end, applause and much astonishment, given that the curtain was never closed, or at least, no one noticed.