by Francois Couture: Kotebel's self-released debut, Structures, contained promises -- but the production (synthesizer only with programmed tracks) held the music back. This second offering, released by the giant prog rock label Musea, is much more satisfying. Although still very much keyboard oriented, Mysticae Visiones is better programmed (the drums have considerably improved) and features other instrumentalists. The presence of guitarist Cesar Garcia and flutist Omar Acosta provides a lush '70s progressive rock atmosphere not unlike Maneige circa Ni Vent Ni Nouvelle or the instrumental albums of Banco del Mutuo Soccorso. Cellist Francisco Ochando and singer Carolina Prieto add more occasional touches. The music of Carlos Plaza (the man behind the moniker Kotebel) remains romantic, symphonic, highly melodious. The compositions have improved, and are now more intricate. The title track consists of a 36-minute suite in 12 parts, taking listeners from birth to death, afterlife, and reincarnation. The piece's structure illustrates this cycle in minute detail. Some sections verge on lackluster synth music, but others, especially "Transition" and "Meditation," will satisfy any fan of the genre. The 15-minute piece "The River" rounds up the program, this one a typical shapeshifting prog composition. There is a naivete in this music that gives it a strong '70s flavor, which may or may not be a good thing, depending on your own taste. But one thing is sure: This second opus sounds a lot more like the effort of a professional group.