Dave Chamberlain

The Black Heart Procession isn't touring on the strength of a new record per se, but the San Diego-based band was part of the latest "In the Fishtank" effort, a series of records pairing like-minded (or completely opposite) bands for recording purposes. In this case, the Procession matches with Dutch indie-prog band Solbakken, and the result comes across as, well, a barely augmented Black Heart Procession record, injected with bells and whistles, but little more. (That is to say: thumbs up.) The Procession and Solbakken complement each other in that the latter's lengthy songwriting hones the morose nature of the former; those expecting BHP to pick where they left off on "Amore del Tropico," and its rock/Latin curls, will be disappointed. But the "Fishtank" proves a perfect medium nonetheless, as piano-led funeral marches that build with intensity and tension are sharpened by percussive theatrics, somber vocals and orchestration that fits the formula. Like the Procession itself, the collaboration with Solbakken is dour and tends towards the moonlight rather than sunlight. Fans of both (and especially the Procession's entire catalogue) should love it, but regardless of whether they embrace it or not, any excuse for the band's return to Chicago is welcome.

The Black Heart Procession plays October 8 at the Bottom Lounge, 3240 North Wilton, (773)975-0505.

(2004-10-06)

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