Waiting for the Challenge (Musea FGBG 4911, 2012)
Apogee is the solo project of multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Arne Schäfer. His progressive rock style is introspective, with a strong focus on poetry and reflective lyrics. In that sense, his sensibility is in line with Peter Hammill (Van Der Graaf Generator), Phideaux and even with King Crimson.
Arne Schäfer plays practically all the instruments, including guitars, keyboards and bass. Two drummers participate in the recording, Eberhard Graef on tracks 1, 2 and Thomas Reiner on tracks 3 – 7.
The mellotron performs an essential role in the Apogee sound, with majestic choirs, symphonic strings and other classic emulated sounds that will delight progressive rock fans. Nuanced vocals, climactic guitars and drums,together with memorable melodies and intricate music passages are the right ingredients for a great progressive rock album.
Previous recordings include The Border of Awareness (1994), Sisyphos (1998), The Garden Of Delights (2003) and Mystery Remains (2009).
Apogee is one of the finest acts in the current German progressive rock scene, with its mesmerizing mix of symphonic rock and insightful songs.