Prog Rock Review: RTFACT-Life Is Good

Release Date: CD Release Date - September 30, 2017/LP Release Date - November 23, 2017

Label: AFL Music

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It is a beautiful thing this progressive rock, and what some artists are releasing these days is amazing. The prog community is very special to this music fan. When you get a chance to hear a project with a overabundance of artists joining forces to record an album it is even more exciting and special.

So now we have RTFACT with their album Life Is Good. This band is fresh from their recording sessions and ready to get this music out to the masses ASAP!

Life Is Good is a boundless combination of prog and classic rock. One of the great things about this album besides all of stellar musicianship, are the vocals of Jeff Scott Soto. He is an outstanding vocalist and I believe underrated by people in the music business. The people that really count, the listeners, know who he is and his capabilities.

Nad Sylvan provides vocals as well and notably Oz Noy rips off a few stellar guitar lines to polish and perfect the experience.  So, what you get is a few of the more recognizable names in the industry joining forces with names you may have been ever exposed to. What does this tell me? There is a lot of unfound talent out there to be discovered and am I ever glad I discovered this band. Thanks go out to Yuri Volodarsky,of AFL Music for making this opportunity possible.

These players know how to have some fun as well. After the superb “(I Got) Money In My Pocket” and “Hail To The Winner Part I” then comes the entertaining instrumental “Hail To The Winner Part II Tarantella.” It starts off like a soundtrack to one of the old 60s TV Shows like Mr. Ed for instance. Then it launches into a full-on rock attack with scorching leads from the six-string. After that workout a true to form prog rock approach is taken, with all the quick changes that blow your mind on “Gotika.” Again, my interest peaked and I was compelled to turn up the volume. It was like listening to ELP on steroids. This is prog rock at its very best as far as I am concerned.

I think the description of the band on the Bandcamp website paints the proper picture of what this music is with the following statement:

An archaeological trove of musical nuggets, with soaring vocals, Hammond B3 wizardry, muscular guitar solos, and a supple rhythm section that grooves as hard as it rocks.

It so true! Usually these statements are a blown out of proportion, a gaggle of words, but in the case every bit of it is right as rain. This is a great sound from start to finish with crankin’ guitar solos, pumping organ and synth parts, and a killer rhythm section. It all comes together to create a prog rock masterpiece. “Life Is Good (Remix)” calls it day with a very Yes like sound and layered vocals. A fitting touch for the closer with a wink and nod to an outstanding musical journey to prog nirvana.

Yes, indeed Life Is Good thanks to prog rock.

Tracks:
1. Life Is Good
2. Artifact
3. (I Got) Money In My Pocket
4. Hail To The Winner. Part I
5. Hail To The Winner. Part II. Tarantella
6. Gotika
7. The King, The Master, And The Timekeeper
8. Hollywood Walk Of Fame
9. Life Is Good (Remix)
 

Line Up:

Jeff Scott Soto - vocals

Nad Sylvan - vocals

Will Champlin - vocals

Oz Noy - solo guitar

Jeff Kollman - solo guitar

Rafael Moreira - guitar

Josh Smith - guitar

Gary Meek - flute, sax

Edward Tsiselsky - keyboards

Dmitry Ilugdin - synthesizers

Eugene Sharikov - bass

Joel Taylor – drums

5/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

October 31, 2017

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Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Progressive Rock Review: Ghostly Beard- Infinite

Release Date: July 14, 2017

Label: 2017 Patrick Talbot

Website

Ghostly Beard is the name of this one-man band created by one Mr. Patrick Talbot. The beauty of his first EP Infinite is the fact it was just him in the creative and recording process. I am sure any artist brimming with creativity and flowing with an endless energy would appreciate the singularity of purpose. This creation is his and his alone, there was nobody there to bounce off ideas or disagree or play something differently. What a beautiful thing, complete musical freedom, or should I say Infinite freedom?

These five tracks are meant to set the table of what is to come. Talbot has much more to share with us hungry prog heads waiting to absorb another helping of the musical virtuosity he can deliver.

The very first track “Close Your Eyes” I found to be very Floydesque, in fact after looking at his bio I see they refer to his guitar playing as very Gilmore like. Not something that is hard to pick out if you are a fan of prog or Pink Floyd, which to me would be virtually one in the same in many respects.

Every track features dreamy soundscapes, razor sharp guitar lines and vocals that are a perfect fit for the tracks. He maintains a steady inflection, neither going up or down - another notch down it would almost be melancholy at times. Yet his voice is very pleasant and just right for the musical meal he serves up.

Each track can stand on its own and the curtain closer is an instrumental fluffy cloud ride into the sunset. Fluffy in a hypnotic and light way that has you wondering why it all just ended. Keep in mind this and EP, a teaser.  The scope and breadth of what is to come will surely be amazing. Count me in Patrick, I want to hear it all!

4/5 Stars

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

July 11, 2017

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Tracks: 
1. Close Your Eyes
2. Frozen in Time
3. No Return
4. Limitless
5. Winter Dance

Progressive Rock Review: Circuline-Counterpoint

Release Date: May 5, 2016

Label: Inner Nova

Website

Circuline has gone from being a former rock cover band named Downing Grey to a legitimate force in progressive rock. 

The band is: Andrew Colyer (keys, sound design, and vocals), Darin Brannon (drums, percussion, keys), Natalie Brown (lead vocals), William “Billy” Spillane (lead vocals, rhythm guitars) and Beledo (guitars).

Counterpoint is their second release. As “New Day” comes knocking on your door your immediate sense is that this is a band that means business and provides some serious musicianship. In the background of the track are voices that sound like astronauts speaking to mission control. I found what they were saying unintelligible but it did not matter because the music is just fantastic. The curtain draws back for a new day and Circuline is here to bring progressive rock to touch every sensory perception you have.

The next track is “Who I Am” a complex and quirky number featuring superb ever changing time signatures and the vocals that match up quite nicely to fill in those crazy changes. I am no stranger to this pace and approach, as a matter of fact find it quite entertaining. The male and female vocal exchange and combination of both really complete the track.

“Forbidden Planet” is the title of a track but also a classic 1956 sci-fi movie. The track is a fitting tribute to that genre and culture. This is powerful sweeping music highlighted by a thick layer of keys, powerful vocals, particularly from lead singer Natalie Brown. Then towards the end incredibly strong drumming comes in from Darin Brannon. Everyone gets an opportunity to spread their wings and fly with the sounds. This is an amazing track that truly epitomizes prog rock.

In many ways this is cinematic rock and “Hollow” is the perfect example of that virtuosity. The track just keeps going and going through a trail of changes and ups and downs that will make your head spin. It’s a thrilling musical ride. It has parts that are a little spooky and others that are all amped up with razor sharp guitar licks and fast pace drumming that provides the heartbeat. When the track is completed it clocks in at 10:48. It is a monster track and the very apex of their abilities on display. “Erosion” is just the opposite coming in at 3:21, which is more like an intro compared to everything else offered on the album. It’s a weird little ditty to change the pace for a bit, but not to worry their big sound returns on the next track “Nautilus.” With a title like that you would expect something with power and forcefulness and that is exactly what you get, varying degrees of it of course, after all this is prog. 

The latter half of the album you see another side of the band, at times they take a softer road but it is still adventurous and ultimately entertaining prog rock. The music serves as a soundscape of colors, time and space and perhaps your own movie showing inside your mind’s eye. The choice is yours. That is the gift of great music such as this.

This is a fantastic album from the first note to the last. It was a pleasure to listen to and absorb. I felt so much appreciation and wonder for what I was hearing. It hit my sweet spot and reminded me how alive and well progressive rock is. I think it is safe to say we have been experiencing the golden age of the genre and although the 70s was crucial and fondly remembered it is the last several years that have helped the music grow in popularity like it never has before. Bands like Circuline will be remembered for their contributions and Counterpoint as one of the best releases of 2016.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: New Day, Forbidden Planet, Hollow

Tracks: 
01. New Day
02. Who I Am
03. Forbidden Planet
04. Hollow
05. Erosion
06. Nautilus
07. Stay (Peter Frankenstan)
08. S.O.A.
09. Inception
10. Summit

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

Founder of:

MuzikMan Productions

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August 2, 2016

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Progressive Rock Review: Circuline-Counterpoint

Release Date: May 5, 2016

Label: Inner Nova

Website

Circuline has gone from being a former rock cover band named Downing Grey to a legitimate force in progressive rock. 

The band is: Andrew Colyer (keys, sound design, and vocals), Darin Brannon (drums, percussion, keys), Natalie Brown (lead vocals), William “Billy” Spillane (lead vocals, rhythm guitars) and Beledo (guitars).

Counterpoint is their second release. As “New Day” comes knocking on your door your immediate sense is that this is a band that means business and provides some serious musicianship. In the background of the track are voices that sound like astronauts speaking to mission control. I found what they were saying unintelligible but it did not matter because the music is just fantastic. The curtain draws back for a new day and Circuline is here to bring progressive rock to touch every sensory perception you have.

The next track is “Who I Am” a complex and quirky number featuring superb ever changing time signatures and the vocals that match up quite nicely to fill in those crazy changes. I am no stranger to this pace and approach, as a matter of fact find it quite entertaining. The male and female vocal exchange and combination of both really complete the track.

“Forbidden Planet” is the title of a track but also a classic 1956 sci-fi movie. The track is a fitting tribute to that genre and culture. This is powerful sweeping music highlighted by a thick layer of keys, powerful vocals, particularly from lead singer Natalie Brown. Then towards the end incredibly strong drumming comes in from Darin Brannon. Everyone gets an opportunity to spread their wings and fly with the sounds. This is an amazing track that truly epitomizes prog rock.

In many ways this is cinematic rock and “Hollow” is the perfect example of that virtuosity. The track just keeps going and going through a trail of changes and ups and downs that will make your head spin. It’s a thrilling musical ride. It has parts that are a little spooky and others that are all amped up with razor sharp guitar licks and fast pace drumming that provides the heartbeat. When the track is completed it clocks in at 10:48. It is a monster track and the very apex of their abilities on display. “Erosion” is just the opposite coming in at 3:21, which is more like an intro compared to everything else offered on the album. It’s a weird little ditty to change the pace for a bit, but not to worry their big sound returns on the next track “Nautilus.” With a title like that you would expect something with power and forcefulness and that is exactly what you get, varying degrees of it of course, after all this is prog. 

The latter half of the album you see another side of the band, at times they take a softer road but it is still adventurous and ultimately entertaining prog rock. The music serves as a soundscape of colors, time and space and perhaps your own movie showing inside your mind’s eye. The choice is yours. That is the gift of great music such as this.

This is a fantastic album from the first note to the last. It was a pleasure to listen to and absorb. I felt so much appreciation and wonder for what I was hearing. It hit my sweet spot and reminded me how alive and well progressive rock is. I think it is safe to say we have been experiencing the golden age of the genre and although the 70s was crucial and fondly remembered it is the last several years that have helped the music grow in popularity like it never has before. Bands like Circuline will be remembered for their contributions and Counterpoint as one of the best releases of 2016.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: New Day, Forbidden Planet, Hollow

Tracks: 
01. New Day
02. Who I Am
03. Forbidden Planet
04. Hollow
05. Erosion
06. Nautilus
07. Stay (Peter Frankenstan)
08. S.O.A.
09. Inception
10. Summit

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

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MuzikMan Productions

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August 2, 2016

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Prog/Symphonic Rock Review: Giannotti-The Great Unknown

Release Date: 10th September 2014
Label: Northford Pines Music
Website

Giannotti is the US based crossover progressive vehicle for the musician Robert Giannotti, formerly of the band, Jasper Wraith. Robert was a founding member of Jasper Wraith in the early 70’s, a band that were very influenced by Yes/Moody Blues and others of that ilk. He left Jasper Wraith and for the best part of 4 decades, and did little in a musical capacity apart from some studio work, preferring to concentrate on his photography. In 2010 he completed a recording studio and set about writing and recording his debut solo album, The Great Unknown, which was finally finished, and released, in 2014.

I am extremely glad that this particular release landed on my review desk as it is a gem, which I was hitherto totally unaware of. The album is a 7 track release with a total playing time of around 58 minutes. The longest track on offer is the title track, “The Great Unknown” with a running time of just under 12 minutes (11:57), and at 5:29 minutes, track 6, “Corridor of Doors” is the shortest.

The musicians involved in The Great Unknown were Robert (guitar, flute, bass, keyboards and drums), George Clini (drums), Mike Soldan (drums and bass) and an array of vocalists, Nicole, Natalia and Jack Tanner, as well as, Ryan and Collin Graveline.

Opening the album, The Great Unknown, is “Intentions – Letting Go” (8:44) and it is a stunning introduction to the music with its symphonic start and excellent guitar soaring high above everything. As it progresses with an acoustic strummed guitar, melodic electric guitar, flute, keyboards and great vocals, this is a very satisfying listen. Over the 8+ minutes there are various influences float across your mind, including The Moody Blues, Yes, Jethro Tull and ELP. Now, don’t get the wrong idea with this comparison list, as Robert I believe is playing the music he really likes and his early influences seem to infiltrate here and there, but at no time is there the sense of “copying” from the past. “Intentions – Letting Go” is a stunning opener and makes you eager to sample what follows.

“Voyage” (8:20) starts with some atmospheric, almost dark, acoustic guitar which slowly merges into a more upbeat tempo. Emotive vocals from the guest vocalists are melodic and harmonious and fit the music very well. Some electric guitar starts to be heard off in the background, but remains subdued, as the vocals carry the track along. Just after the halfway point, the electric guitar gets to “show off” a little in front of some excellent keyboards. This is a very atmospheric track and has a plaintive flute passage carrying the track off and away.

There is more of the excellent guitar work at the start of track 3, “Dance of the Gnome” (6:13) and immerses the listener just prior to some wonderful flute phrasings, suggesting an almost pastoral feel. This instrumental flows gently along until the flute provides another terrific passage and at the 4 minute mark, the track “hardens” a little with an almost abrasive guitar theme. The gentleness of the track returns as it fades out.

The title track, “The Great Unknown” (11:57) has a sort of ambient based backdrop over which there is a stunning electric guitar theme, interspersed with the flute. This is another beautiful track with those powerful melodious vocals. A slow building track which eventually moves into an extremely atmospheric area when the soaring guitar reappears. A gentle fading outro ends a very pleasing passage of music and upon reflection, draws influences from Pink Floyd.

“Sacred Ground” (8:45), “Corridor of Doors” (5:29) and “A World Away” (8:20) includes an almost choral style to the first of these tracks, symphonic overtones and amazing flute providing pastoral imagery to the second and sees the final track having a more symphonic, choral style, and is a beautiful building song to the finale of the album.

The Great Unknown is a majestic piece of work from Robert, with the fleeting influences from bands of the past coming and going, but never intruding throughout the 60 minutes. As the music flows over you, you can be transported back several decades and enjoy sublime aural satisfaction. Make no mistake that there seems to have been a massive oversight of this album when released, and I am very glad I was given the chance to hear and review it. How it was passed over, I really do not know, but my advice is very simple, and that is, “Get out and buy this album.” Let’s ensure that Giannotti get a huge boost in the sales of this superb, but overlooked, debut.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Intentions – Letting Go, The Great Unknown, A World Away

Tracks:
1.  Intentions – Letting Go
2.  Voyage
3.  Dance Of The Gnome
4.  The Great Unknown
5.  Sacred Ground
6.  Corridor Of Doors
7.  A World Away

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk
May 9, 2016
Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Prog/Symphonic Rock Review: Giannotti-The Great Unknown

Release Date: 10th September 2014
Label: Northford Pines Music
Website

Giannotti is the US based crossover progressive vehicle for the musician Robert Giannotti, formerly of the band, Jasper Wraith. Robert was a founding member of Jasper Wraith in the early 70’s, a band that were very influenced by Yes/Moody Blues and others of that ilk. He left Jasper Wraith and for the best part of 4 decades, and did little in a musical capacity apart from some studio work, preferring to concentrate on his photography. In 2010 he completed a recording studio and set about writing and recording his debut solo album, The Great Unknown, which was finally finished, and released, in 2014.

I am extremely glad that this particular release landed on my review desk as it is a gem, which I was hitherto totally unaware of. The album is a 7 track release with a total playing time of around 58 minutes. The longest track on offer is the title track, “The Great Unknown” with a running time of just under 12 minutes (11:57), and at 5:29 minutes, track 6, “Corridor of Doors” is the shortest.

The musicians involved in The Great Unknown were Robert (guitar, flute, bass, keyboards and drums), George Clini (drums), Mike Soldan (drums and bass) and an array of vocalists, Nicole, Natalia and Jack Tanner, as well as, Ryan and Collin Graveline.

Opening the album, The Great Unknown, is “Intentions – Letting Go” (8:44) and it is a stunning introduction to the music with its symphonic start and excellent guitar soaring high above everything. As it progresses with an acoustic strummed guitar, melodic electric guitar, flute, keyboards and great vocals, this is a very satisfying listen. Over the 8+ minutes there are various influences float across your mind, including The Moody Blues, Yes, Jethro Tull and ELP. Now, don’t get the wrong idea with this comparison list, as Robert I believe is playing the music he really likes and his early influences seem to infiltrate here and there, but at no time is there the sense of “copying” from the past. “Intentions – Letting Go” is a stunning opener and makes you eager to sample what follows.

“Voyage” (8:20) starts with some atmospheric, almost dark, acoustic guitar which slowly merges into a more upbeat tempo. Emotive vocals from the guest vocalists are melodic and harmonious and fit the music very well. Some electric guitar starts to be heard off in the background, but remains subdued, as the vocals carry the track along. Just after the halfway point, the electric guitar gets to “show off” a little in front of some excellent keyboards. This is a very atmospheric track and has a plaintive flute passage carrying the track off and away.

There is more of the excellent guitar work at the start of track 3, “Dance of the Gnome” (6:13) and immerses the listener just prior to some wonderful flute phrasings, suggesting an almost pastoral feel. This instrumental flows gently along until the flute provides another terrific passage and at the 4 minute mark, the track “hardens” a little with an almost abrasive guitar theme. The gentleness of the track returns as it fades out.

The title track, “The Great Unknown” (11:57) has a sort of ambient based backdrop over which there is a stunning electric guitar theme, interspersed with the flute. This is another beautiful track with those powerful melodious vocals. A slow building track which eventually moves into an extremely atmospheric area when the soaring guitar reappears. A gentle fading outro ends a very pleasing passage of music and upon reflection, draws influences from Pink Floyd.

“Sacred Ground” (8:45), “Corridor of Doors” (5:29) and “A World Away” (8:20) includes an almost choral style to the first of these tracks, symphonic overtones and amazing flute providing pastoral imagery to the second and sees the final track having a more symphonic, choral style, and is a beautiful building song to the finale of the album.

The Great Unknown is a majestic piece of work from Robert, with the fleeting influences from bands of the past coming and going, but never intruding throughout the 60 minutes. As the music flows over you, you can be transported back several decades and enjoy sublime aural satisfaction. Make no mistake that there seems to have been a massive oversight of this album when released, and I am very glad I was given the chance to hear and review it. How it was passed over, I really do not know, but my advice is very simple, and that is, “Get out and buy this album.” Let’s ensure that Giannotti get a huge boost in the sales of this superb, but overlooked, debut.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Intentions – Letting Go, The Great Unknown, A World Away

Tracks:
1.  Intentions – Letting Go
2.  Voyage
3.  Dance Of The Gnome
4.  The Great Unknown
5.  Sacred Ground
6.  Corridor Of Doors
7.  A World Away

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk
May 9, 2016
Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Concert Review: Dream Theater at The Palace Theater

Dream Theater At The Palace Theater

April 18, 2016

Albany, New York

It had been over 3.5 years since I saw Dream Theater play live. For this fan it was an exceedingly long time. I regret not going to the Boston show that was captured on DVD with the orchestra but that is gone and here we are. Once again siting in our seats (for the ninth time) waiting for what I consider to be the greatest band in the world.

I have to thank Jordan Rudess for getting us backstage again. He has been very gracious over the years and he and the band have made me and my son feel like we are not just fans, but part of the Dream Theater family. Many thanks out to Jordan and John Petrucci for taking the time for conversation, some pics and signing my program as well. It was unfortunate we missed the rest of the band this time, as we had to get on the road for our journey home and go to work the next day.

 
I went to this concert with a bit more anticipation than all the others because for only the second time I would get to see an entire album played from start to finish. The first time was in 2005 when Judas Priest covered their classic British Steel album. After hearing the new double concept album, The Astonishing, I knew we would be in for a special performance.

The new album is Dream Theater chugging along on all cylinders and sometimes the wheels are off the ground entirely! When we arrived at the beautiful Palace Theater, one of my favorite venues, there was the giant replica of a Nomac. These are the devices in the album story that the civilization were fighting. Everyone that decided to, including myself, got in front of the device to get a real cool picture taken that will be on the band’s site. Then we made our way to our seats which was on the left in the orchestra section only three rows back. These were the best seats we ever had at a DT concert and we were absolutely thrilled. I immediately noticed the stage setting. It looked very colorful and hi-tech. I took note how with each successive show I have attended, particularly since the Constant Motion tour, they have kicked it up another notch to provide some visual treats for their audience. This of course comes with continued success and an ever growing worldwide fan base. I cannot think of a better group of people more deserving than this band.

If you want to know the set list just look at the new album The Astonishing and do not expect an encore it is more than enough music for one sitting. It is a brilliant album with an equally amazing live presentation you will not forget.

What I came realize in a big way on this night was just how heavy this album is. In a live setting and being so close to the stage and those speakers directly to our left against the wall really put everything into another dimension. It gives it another perspective entirely and all of it really hits home, the story and the music. The music is intense and complex, absolutely progressive, starting and stopping then changing from pacifying and soft, to fast and brutal, to match the lyrics. It would be interesting to see a full length movie of this story with their album as the soundtrack.

We were to the right of Petrucci, very close, and seeing him so intensely focused and committed to the music was a joy to witness. Everyone in the band is an incredible talent and you can’t help looking at them all as they play.

If you are a progressive metal enthusiast you must catch this show, it is truly amazing and once again proves why Dream Theater sits atop the music mountain in their respective genre and will continue to for years to come. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Prog Music Talk, Write A Music Review, MuzikMan Reviews, MuzikMan Productions, Rate The Tracks and New Age Music Reviews Founder

April 20, 2016

Concert Review: Dream Theater at The Palace Theater

Dream Theater At The Palace Theater

April 18, 2016

Albany, New York

It had been over 3.5 years since I saw Dream Theater play live. For this fan it was an exceedingly long time. I regret not going to the Boston show that was captured on DVD with the orchestra but that is gone and here we are. Once again siting in our seats (for the ninth time) waiting for what I consider to be the greatest band in the world.

I have to thank Jordan Rudess for getting us backstage again. He has been very gracious over the years and he and the band have made me and my son feel like we are not just fans, but part of the Dream Theater family. Many thanks out to Jordan and John Petrucci for taking the time for conversation, some pics and signing my program as well. It was unfortunate we missed the rest of the band this time, as we had to get on the road for our journey home and go to work the next day.

 
I went to this concert with a bit more anticipation than all the others because for only the second time I would get to see an entire album played from start to finish. The first time was in 2005 when Judas Priest covered their classic British Steelalbum. After hearing the new double concept album, The Astonishing, I knew we would be in for a special performance.

The new album is Dream Theater chugging along on all cylinders and sometimes the wheels are off the ground entirely! When we arrived at the beautiful Palace Theater, one of my favorite venues, there was the giant replica of a Nomac. These are the devices in the album story that the civilization were fighting. Everyone that decided to, including myself, got in front of the device to get a real cool picture taken that will be on the band’s site. Then we made our way to our seats which was on the left in the orchestra section only three rows back. These were the best seats we ever had at a DT concert and we were absolutely thrilled. I immediately noticed the stage setting. It looked very colorful and hi-tech. I took note how with each successive show I have attended, particularly since the Constant Motiontour, they have kicked it up another notch to provide some visual treats for their audience. This of course comes with continued success and an ever growing worldwide fan base. I cannot think of a better group of people more deserving than this band.

If you want to know the set list just look at the new album The Astonishing and do not expect an encore it is more than enough music for one sitting. It is a brilliant album with an equally amazing live presentation you will not forget.

What I came realize in a big way on this night was just how heavy this album is. In a live setting and being so close to the stage and those speakers directly to our left against the wall really put everything into another dimension. It gives it another perspective entirely and all of it really hits home, the story and the music. The music is intense and complex, absolutely progressive, starting and stopping then changing from pacifying and soft, to fast and brutal, to match the lyrics. It would be interesting to see a full length movie of this story with their album as the soundtrack.

We were to the right of Petrucci, very close, and seeing him so intensely focused and committed to the music was a joy to witness. Everyone in the band is an incredible talent and you can’t help looking at them all as they play.

If you are a progressive metal enthusiast you must catch this show, it is truly amazing and once again proves why Dream Theater sits atop the music mountain in their respective genre and will continue to for years to come. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Prog Music Talk, Write A Music Review, MuzikMan Reviews, MuzikMan Productions, Rate The Tracks and New Age Music Reviews Founder

April 20, 2016

Contemporary Progressive Rock Review: Profuna Ocean-In Vacuum

Release Date: 8^th January 2016

Label: Freia Music

Website

Profuna Ocean is a contemporary prog rock band formed in The Netherlands back in 2008. The debut album, Watching The Closing Sky, was released the following year, and picked up some international attention as well as some Dutch radio play. Indeed, it was one Rick Wakeman, The Caped Crusader himself, who aired Profuna Ocean’s music when he was a broadcaster on Planet Rock Radio. The band then continued to enhance their growing reputation by sharing stages with bands such as Focus, Knight Area and Racoon. 2013 saw the band win the award for “best prog rock band of The Netherlands” for their song, “Waiting For The Fall.”

All the while, the band were working on the second album, refining and evolving their style. They were taking onboard influences from bands like Porcupine Tree and Pineapple Thief in the progressive area of their music but adding the sort of power and intensity a band like Anathema demonstrated, to further hone the newer material in their style.

Profuna Ocean is a 4 piece band comprising Fred den Hartog (drums), Raoul Potters (vocals, guitar), Arjan Visser (bass) and Rene Visser (keyboards) and album No 2, In Vacuum, was released recently. In Vacuum is an 8 track album with a total playing time around 62 minutes, with the title track, “In Vacuum” being the shortest of the eight, running for less than 2 minutes (1:11) and the longest track being “Hanging In The Balance” at over 13 minutes (13:30).

The opening track to any album is important as it has to say “you are really going to like this” and then proceed to grab your ears and provide the evidence for this statement. The spotlight falls on “Thousand Yard Stare” (7:29) at the start of In Vacuum. Starting with crashing power chords, it quickly evolves into gorgeous melodic voices with an acoustic guitar and piano before returning to the power chord sequence with more emphatic vocals. The vocals are terrific and the overall feel of the track is that it neatly straddles the hard, heavy rock and gentle, acoustic, melodic areas. As an opening track, “Thousand Yard Stare” is a definite winner, veering as it does, constantly engaging the listener, plus there are some “killer” electric guitar passages. The track sets the listener up perfectly for the rest of the album.

“Awakening” (4:54) is another track that has a driving feel to it with a heavier sound, but the vocals retain their very melodic flow. This is a shorter track, but has a “hook” from early on which resurfaces several times.

Next up is the longest track, “Hanging In The Balance” (13:30) which allows the band to fly. From the superb guitar, backed by the excellent power unit of bass and drums and the ever present, but only briefly taking the spotlight, sweep of the keyboards, this track simply flows effortlessly, going through seamless changes of tempo and power. “Hanging In The balance” is one of those tracks that you just want to hear over and over again. The long instrumental passages show the amazing tightness of the musicians involved.

“Losing Ground” (8:00), “Ghost” (5:09), “Beautiful Sunrise” (10:36) and the title track, “In Vacuum” (1:11) are in turn, melodic but driving, acoustic and just beautiful, harsh power chords, sweeping keyboards and atmosphere with the title track a short atmospheric building track. 

The final track, “Clean Slate” (11:42) starts up like a powerful rock track with power chords and great vocals before evolving into an atmospheric piece of music which then morphs into an engine-room showcase (bass and drums) before some superb guitar leads back into the heavier mode. Towards the end of the track, a piano has an excellent passage together with a “whistling wind” and the track fades away.

I feel that the album, In Vacuum, require several listens before you realize that this is a great piece of work. The band has managed to make an album which filters into your head a little more with each play, and then it hits you without warning.

As always, this reviewer’s opinion is a very personal one, but I would encourage you to give Profuna Ocean a listen and I feel that there will be very few disappointed people.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks:  Hanging In The Balance, Ghost, Beautiful Sunrise

Tracks:
1. Thousand Yard Stare
2. Awakening
3. Hanging In The Balance
4. Losing Ground
5. Ghost
6. Beautiful Sunrise
7. In Vacuum
8. Clean Slate

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

April 5, 2016

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk

Contemporary Progressive Rock Review: Profuna Ocean-In Vacuum

Release Date: 8^thJanuary 2016

Label: Freia Music

Website

Profuna Ocean is a contemporary prog rock band formed in The Netherlands back in 2008. The debut album, Watching The Closing Sky, was released the following year, and picked up some international attention as well as some Dutch radio play. Indeed, it was one Rick Wakeman, The Caped Crusader himself, who aired Profuna Ocean’s music when he was a broadcaster on Planet Rock Radio. The band then continued to enhance their growing reputation by sharing stages with bands such as Focus, Knight Area and Racoon. 2013 saw the band win the award for “best prog rock band of The Netherlands” for their song, “Waiting For The Fall.”

All the while, the band were working on the second album, refining and evolving their style. They were taking onboard influences from bands like Porcupine Tree and Pineapple Thief in the progressive area of their music but adding the sort of power and intensity a band like Anathema demonstrated, to further hone the newer material in their style.

Profuna Ocean is a 4 piece band comprising Fred den Hartog (drums), Raoul Potters (vocals, guitar), Arjan Visser (bass) and Rene Visser (keyboards) and album No 2, In Vacuum, was released recently. In Vacuum is an 8 track album with a total playing time around 62 minutes, with the title track, “In Vacuum” being the shortest of the eight, running for less than 2 minutes (1:11) and the longest track being “Hanging In The Balance” at over 13 minutes (13:30).

The opening track to any album is important as it has to say “you are really going to like this” and then proceed to grab your ears and provide the evidence for this statement. The spotlight falls on “Thousand Yard Stare” (7:29) at the start of In Vacuum. Starting with crashing power chords, it quickly evolves into gorgeous melodic voices with an acoustic guitar and piano before returning to the power chord sequence with more emphatic vocals. The vocals are terrific and the overall feel of the track is that it neatly straddles the hard, heavy rock and gentle, acoustic, melodic areas. As an opening track, “Thousand Yard Stare” is a definite winner, veering as it does, constantly engaging the listener, plus there are some “killer” electric guitar passages. The track sets the listener up perfectly for the rest of the album.

“Awakening” (4:54) is another track that has a driving feel to it with a heavier sound, but the vocals retain their very melodic flow. This is a shorter track, but has a “hook” from early on which resurfaces several times.

Next up is the longest track, “Hanging In The Balance” (13:30) which allows the band to fly. From the superb guitar, backed by the excellent power unit of bass and drums and the ever present, but only briefly taking the spotlight, sweep of the keyboards, this track simply flows effortlessly, going through seamless changes of tempo and power. “Hanging In The balance” is one of those tracks that you just want to hear over and over again. The long instrumental passages show the amazing tightness of the musicians involved.

“Losing Ground” (8:00), “Ghost” (5:09), “Beautiful Sunrise” (10:36) and the title track, “In Vacuum” (1:11) are in turn, melodic but driving, acoustic and just beautiful, harsh power chords, sweeping keyboards and atmosphere with the title track a short atmospheric building track. 

The final track, “Clean Slate” (11:42) starts up like a powerful rock track with power chords and great vocals before evolving into an atmospheric piece of music which then morphs into an engine-room showcase (bass and drums) before some superb guitar leads back into the heavier mode. Towards the end of the track, a piano has an excellent passage together with a “whistling wind” and the track fades away.

I feel that the album, In Vacuum, require several listens before you realize that this is a great piece of work. The band has managed to make an album which filters into your head a little more with each play, and then it hits you without warning.

As always, this reviewer’s opinion is a very personal one, but I would encourage you to give Profuna Ocean a listen and I feel that there will be very few disappointed people.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks:  Hanging In The Balance, Ghost, Beautiful Sunrise

Tracks:
1. Thousand Yard Stare
2. Awakening
3. Hanging In The Balance
4. Losing Ground
5. Ghost
6. Beautiful Sunrise
7. In Vacuum
8. Clean Slate

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson-Sr. Reviewer Prog Rock Music Talk

April 5, 2016

Review Provided By Prog Rock Music Talk