You are not a fan of instrumental albums? You think they are often too technical, too demonstrative, not melodic enough, even boring? Then Talc is likely to reconcile you with the genre. Not that the second album of the Swiss trio lacks technique, in fact it's quite the opposite. But it succeeds where many others fail: combining virtuosity, melody and musicality. And frankly it's rare enough not to be missed.
Let's be honest, we had completely forgotten about Talc and his first album "Talc 1" released in 2014. On the scale of musical production, eight years to release a new try seems like an eternity. But the trio is patient and above all perfectionist. Their scrupulous work can be felt in the compositions of course, but also in the mixing of this "Talc 2" which, far from being conventional, is quite surprising and quite vintage compared to current standards. Like some jazz recordings, each instrument is highlighted and is on an equal footing to dialogue permanently with the others and with the listener.
Jazz, and in particular jazz rock, is sometimes mentioned, notably thanks to the groove impelled by the subtle drums of Vincent Verselle ('Crimson Hour'). But Talc evolves especially in a refined post-prog style, halfway between Porcupine Tree's psychedelism ('Ultramarine', 'Chimere') and Long Distance Calling's post-rock (the magnificent 'Amor Fati'). Except that Antonin Wiser is a much more talented guitarist than the average. The melodic approach of 'Embuscade', quite close to the one of Joe Satriani's 'Mountain Song', the alternate picking solo of 'Spin', on which the shadow of John Petrucci hovers, or the mix between flamenco and folk on the excellent 'Cordoba' allow Talc to stand out from his influences and to show all his originality.
However, Talc's music is never ostentatious and this is its main asset and what makes it endearing. "Talc 2" is an album that becomes more and more interesting as you listen to it, thanks to very melodic compositions. If you are angry with instrumental albums, it's time for reconciliation.