Progressive Rock Review: Forest Field-Pioneers Of The Future

Release Date:  1st June 2013
Label: Rock Company

Website

This album for review, Pioneers Of The Future, is the first full length album from the Dutch studio project, Forest Field. The project is led by Chinawhite stalwart, Peter Cox, who is responsible for guitars, keyboards, bass, programming and vocals. The rest of the “band” utilizes the voices of Phil Vincent, Joris Peeters, Aukje Peeters and Sue Straw as well as Sander Stappers (also from Chinawhite), who plays bass on some tracks. The music contained within the album, Pioneers Of The Future, can best be described as a combination of ambient, new age and progressive rock genres, spread across a collection of instrumentals and vocal tracks, making extensive use of instruments such as mellotrons, piano and organs, but with a suitable input and back up by the guitars, bass and drums.

There is a sort of theme running through the album, dealing with Time and the seven instrumental tracks all have titles containing the days of the week and the vocal tracks deal with the effects of time.

Pioneers Of The Future is a 13 track album with a running time of around 53 minutes, with track 5, one of the instrumentals, “Wonderful Wednesday” being the shortest track at 1:18 minutes and track 4, “Phoenix For The Sunrise” being the longest on offer at just over 7 minutes (7:18). The instrumental tracks are the odd numbered tracks with the vocal tracks, fitting between them.

The opening track, “2 Many Mondays” (3:16) has an interesting beginning, with sweeping synths and a simple melody plucked out on a guitar. Unfortunately, even at just over 3 minutes, I found that I was starting to drift from the music as the interest was waning. ”Tuesday I Think” (2:30), “Wonderful Wednesday” (1:18) and the other instrumentals, while initially catching the listener’s attention, are missing that factor to maintain the interest. There is some terrific guitar work going on in all of these tracks, but my overall impression was that they lacked a little in direction.

“Imaginary Queens” (6:19) starts with excellent drum, bass and keyboards before the guitar adds a terrific little passage. The vocals seem very low in the mix and this initially makes the track more interesting. Throughout the track there is some superb guitar work, but the vocals ultimately didn’t “do it” for me and I felt a little disappointed when the track meandered out, albeit with some more excellent guitar.

“Phoenix For The Sunrise” (7:08) has a similar feeling with the keyboards, drum and bass, but the guest vocalists didn’t add anything and sounded “flat” and lifeless. “Set Me Free” (5:44), “Time” (5:21) and “Places Never Seen” (6:20) are all good platforms for highlighting Peter’s guitar playing and are relatively more interesting.

“Looking For Someone” (5:35), I was really unsure about, and I think it is the least successful track on the album. The instrumentation on show is very good, but I felt that the vocals didn’t fit the track. This, of course, is a very personal opinion, but having listened to this album several times over a couple of weeks, this track has not endeared itself to me in any way.

This album, Pioneers Of The Future, I did find a little difficult to get “inside.” At times, there are those “ je ne sais quoi” moments and the music is superb, but then equally, there were moments when my attention would drift or the vocals would seem at odds with what else was happening.

As a debut album, I don’t think that Pioneers Of The Future is an album that is a “must buy” but I would like to see where Peter goes from this point, and I believe a follow-up album is being worked on. As always, my advice is to give the album a good few listens, after all, it might just be me that hasn’t managed to “get it.”

3.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Set Me Free, Time, Places Never Seen

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

March 8, 2014


Tracks:
2 Many Mondays
Imaginary Queens
Tuesday I Think
Phoenix For The Sunrise
Wonderful Wednesday
Set Me Free
Thursday Thunder
Looking For Someone
Freaky Friday
Time
Lazy Saturday Swim
Places Never Seen
Serious Sunday

Progressive Rock Review: Frank Baker-Noctilucent

Frank Baker is a name I certainly wasn’t familiar with when Noctilucent, his first album under his own name, landed on my desk for review .He has produced music under various names as side projects such as Meadowy Temple, Landcold and Ociraa. Frank is a solo artist and record producer from Southern Germany and he describes his involvement in music more as a “sound architect” building audio-visual landscapes rather than “singer-orientated” songs. He places his material loosely into the prog rock area, but with heavy influences from cinematic areas and ambient sound. It certainly sounds like an interesting background to the production of the album, Noctilucent, and I was keen to hear what was on offer.

Frank is a multi-instrumentalist, covering vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards, piano, percussion and drum programming on the album.

Noctilucent is a 10 track album with a total playing time of around 41 minutes, with the closing track, “The Avalanche Pt 1,” being the shortest at 1:10 minutes and track 4, “The Court of the Hunter,” the longest at 6:44 minutes.

An aptly named opening track, simply called “Opening” (1:38), starts Noctilucent and certainly fits into the more ambient area and leads directly into track 2, “Fingerprints” (5:40). “Opening” has a beautiful piano passage with some extraneous background noises which builds up with the keyboards, before a “harsh” drum takes the track out and into “Fingerprints.” This has superb acoustic guitar work, painting a soundscape, which is then superseded by guitar, bass, drums and a very breathy stylized vocal. There is even a beatlesque hint with some of the vocals. The music is excellent, very cinematic in its build-up and these two opening tracks certainly maintain the interest of the listener with some time changes and some intriguing percussion breaks.

“Scared Little Birman” (3:45), “Noctilucent Clouds” (3:56) and “A Lull In The Wind” (3:30) share the more acoustic gentle style of the initial part of track 2 and give a little nod at times  to the sound of early Pink Floyd. This is an excellent trio of similar styled tracks, letting the listener float along on their melodic nature.

The other tracks, “The Court of The Hunter” (6:42), “Paleness” (5:23), “Into the Snow” (5:25), “Colored Mountain Ranges” (4:48) and “The Avalanche Pt 1” (1:11) share the more complex and slightly heavier side of the music. “The Court Of The Hunter,” in particular, sets out a stunning soundscape which “doffs its cap” in the direction of Porcupine Tree, as does “Into the Snow.” ”Colored Mountain Ranges” has some swirling keyboards and a beautifully played guitar melody, while “The Avalanche Pt 1,” which takes the album out, is a very interesting track, even in its brevity and I was left wondering why this track was so short, but perhaps it will be continued at the start of album 2?

All in all, Noctilucent is a very intriguing debut solo release, with some amazing work on show. While the album doesn’t quite get both album stickers, it definitely gets the “One to Buy” sticker. If you wrap your ears around this album for several plays, you will realize that Frank Baker has produced an album that hits very close to a bull’s-eye and we should all be on the alert for the follow up release, when it ultimately appears.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Opening/Fingerprints: The Court of the Hunter: Noctilucent Clouds

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

February 24, 2014

Release Date: 13^thDecember 2013

Label:  Independent

Website

              

Progressive Rock Review: Frank Baker-Noctilucent

Frank Baker is a name I certainly wasn’t familiar with when Noctilucent, his first album under his own name, landed on my desk for review .He has produced music under various names as side projects such as Meadowy Temple, Landcold and Ociraa. Frank is a solo artist and record producer from Southern Germany and he describes his involvement in music more as a “sound architect” building audio-visual landscapes rather than “singer-orientated” songs. He places his material loosely into the prog rock area, but with heavy influences from cinematic areas and ambient sound. It certainly sounds like an interesting background to the production of the album, Noctilucent, and I was keen to hear what was on offer.

Frank is a multi-instrumentalist, covering vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards, piano, percussion and drum programming on the album.

Noctilucent is a 10 track album with a total playing time of around 41 minutes, with the closing track, “The Avalanche Pt 1,” being the shortest at 1:10 minutes and track 4, “The Court of the Hunter,” the longest at 6:44 minutes.

An aptly named opening track, simply called “Opening” (1:38), starts Noctilucent and certainly fits into the more ambient area and leads directly into track 2, “Fingerprints” (5:40). “Opening” has a beautiful piano passage with some extraneous background noises which builds up with the keyboards, before a “harsh” drum takes the track out and into “Fingerprints.” This has superb acoustic guitar work, painting a soundscape, which is then superseded by guitar, bass, drums and a very breathy stylized vocal. There is even a beatlesque hint with some of the vocals. The music is excellent, very cinematic in its build-up and these two opening tracks certainly maintain the interest of the listener with some time changes and some intriguing percussion breaks.

“Scared Little Birman” (3:45), “Noctilucent Clouds” (3:56) and “A Lull In The Wind” (3:30) share the more acoustic gentle style of the initial part of track 2 and give a little nod at times  to the sound of early Pink Floyd. This is an excellent trio of similar styled tracks, letting the listener float along on their melodic nature.

The other tracks, “The Court of The Hunter” (6:42), “Paleness” (5:23), “Into the Snow” (5:25), “Colored Mountain Ranges” (4:48) and “The Avalanche Pt 1” (1:11) share the more complex and slightly heavier side of the music. “The Court Of The Hunter,” in particular, sets out a stunning soundscape which “doffs its cap” in the direction of Porcupine Tree, as does “Into the Snow.” ”Colored Mountain Ranges” has some swirling keyboards and a beautifully played guitar melody, while “The Avalanche Pt 1,” which takes the album out, is a very interesting track, even in its brevity and I was left wondering why this track was so short, but perhaps it will be continued at the start of album 2?

All in all, Noctilucent is a very intriguing debut solo release, with some amazing work on show. While the album doesn’t quite get both album stickers, it definitely gets the “One to Buy” sticker. If you wrap your ears around this album for several plays, you will realize that Frank Baker has produced an album that hits very close to a bull’s-eye and we should all be on the alert for the follow up release, when it ultimately appears.

4.5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Opening/Fingerprints: The Court of the Hunter: Noctilucent Clouds

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

February 24, 2014

Release Date: 13^thDecember 2013

Label:  Independent

Website

              

Progressive Rock Review: Legend-Spirit

Release Date: 12^thNovember 2013

Label: Code 7 Ravenheart Music

Website

Although the band Legend, who is the subject of this review with their recent release, Spirit, also celebrated their 25^thAnniversary last year, the album is only their 5^th studio release. Formed back in 1988, they have undergone several changes of personnel together with having a hiatus from 1998 to 2008, thus their output has been low, but always high quality music for discerning audiophiles.

Influences for this band are far ranging and include such acts as Jethro Tull, Curved Air, Clannad, Rush, Jefferson Airplane, Nightwish, Steeleye Span, Marillion etc. The music of Legend is very difficult to put into a neat little box,  it is better to describe it as straddling genres such as neo-prog, prog folk, heavy metal and more, but molded into the sound that is Legend.

As mentioned at the start, Spirit (2013) is the 5^thstudio release following on from the debut, Light In Extension (1991), Second Sight(1993) and Triple Aspect (1996) prior to the hiatus, with Cardinal Points(2011) heralding the return of the band.

The band is currently a 4 piece outfit comprising Steve Paine (keyboards and bass), Paul Thomson (electric and acoustic guitars), Beck Sian (vocals) and Jack Macklin (drums and percussion), with Steve and Paul being original members from 1988.

Spirit is a 5 track album with a total playing time of around 61 minutes and at 6:57 minutes, track 2, “Wood from the Trees,” is the shortest on offer, with track 3, “A Tangled Skein,” the longest at 18:23 minutes.

“Leap Of Faith” (11:53) is one stormer of an opening track with thundering bass and drums. The guitar and the synths are always present behind that stunning vocal work by Beck. The crystal clear vocals are just so powerful, swooping from almost gothic style choral work to the verses flawlessly. The atmosphere of the track can be dark and edgy then move into almost ethereal, gentle areas and back, without the “join” being obvious. As an opening track, this is what I look for, with an almost immediate grabbing of the listener and then enough areas of light and dark to keep them immersed in the music.

“Wood for the Trees” (6:57) simply accepts the baton from track 1 and is off and running from the start. Some stunning guitar work from Paul, perfectly backed up by the synths/keyboards of Steve, underpinned by that tight knit powerhouse of Dave and Steve on drums and bass .With those powerful lungs of Beck effortlessly providing those amazing vocals, this is a gem of a track.

The longest track, “A Tangled Skein” (18:23) starts in a very different manner with some beautifully played guitar, silky keyboards and a clam-like bass, before Becks vocals grab your attention. This moves into an almost operatic style chant section with the vocals soaring, before settling back into the opening passage. Amazing keyboards and guitar around the 4:00 minute mark herald a change to the track, with Becks voice starting to build the track up, and indeed, assuming a style not dissimilar to one Kate Bush. The bass and drums have almost imperceptibly crept more into the mix, and although there is a hint of “metronomic” drumming, it never detracts from the flow of the track. Another track that can be both light and dark when it requires and at times, the keyboards can be persuaded to howl and growl to generate the required atmosphere.

“Crossing of the Ways” (10:10) is a beautiful piece of melodic prog rock with the bass driving the track along and the powerful voice carrying everything along with it. Coming as a real contrast to what has gone before simply adds to the presence of the track. The final track, “State Of Grace” (13:38) features celestial choirs, tubular bells, stunning guitar work, more of that wide range of vocals that Beck is capable of and simply sumptuous synthesized orchestrations.

Spirit is an album that deserves to be “massive” and I cannot recommend this work highly enough. Carrying both stickers, “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last forever” on the cover, my advice is to clear a little space on your CD shelf and treat yourself to a stunningly atmospheric album.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Leap Of Faith, Wood For The Trees, A Tangled Skein

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

February 17, 2014

Tracks:
Leap Of Faith
Wood For The Trees
A Tangled Skein
Crossing Of The Ways
State Of Grace 

Progressive Rock Review: Legend-Spirit

Release Date: 12^thNovember 2013

Label: Code 7 Ravenheart Music

Website

Although the band Legend, who is the subject of this review with their recent release, Spirit, also celebrated their 25^thAnniversary last year, the album is only their 5^th studio release. Formed back in 1988, they have undergone several changes of personnel together with having a hiatus from 1998 to 2008, thus their output has been low, but always high quality music for discerning audiophiles.

Influences for this band are far ranging and include such acts as Jethro Tull, Curved Air, Clannad, Rush, Jefferson Airplane, Nightwish, Steeleye Span, Marillion etc. The music of Legend is very difficult to put into a neat little box,  it is better to describe it as straddling genres such as neo-prog, prog folk, heavy metal and more, but molded into the sound that is Legend.

As mentioned at the start, Spirit (2013) is the 5^thstudio release following on from the debut, Light In Extension (1991), Second Sight(1993) and Triple Aspect (1996) prior to the hiatus, with Cardinal Points(2011) heralding the return of the band.

The band is currently a 4 piece outfit comprising Steve Paine (keyboards and bass), Paul Thomson (electric and acoustic guitars), Beck Sian (vocals) and Jack Macklin (drums and percussion), with Steve and Paul being original members from 1988.

Spirit is a 5 track album with a total playing time of around 61 minutes and at 6:57 minutes, track 2, “Wood from the Trees,” is the shortest on offer, with track 3, “A Tangled Skein,” the longest at 18:23 minutes.

“Leap Of Faith” (11:53) is one stormer of an opening track with thundering bass and drums. The guitar and the synths are always present behind that stunning vocal work by Beck. The crystal clear vocals are just so powerful, swooping from almost gothic style choral work to the verses flawlessly. The atmosphere of the track can be dark and edgy then move into almost ethereal, gentle areas and back, without the “join” being obvious. As an opening track, this is what I look for, with an almost immediate grabbing of the listener and then enough areas of light and dark to keep them immersed in the music.

“Wood for the Trees” (6:57) simply accepts the baton from track 1 and is off and running from the start. Some stunning guitar work from Paul, perfectly backed up by the synths/keyboards of Steve, underpinned by that tight knit powerhouse of Dave and Steve on drums and bass .With those powerful lungs of Beck effortlessly providing those amazing vocals, this is a gem of a track.

The longest track, “A Tangled Skein” (18:23) starts in a very different manner with some beautifully played guitar, silky keyboards and a clam-like bass, before Becks vocals grab your attention. This moves into an almost operatic style chant section with the vocals soaring, before settling back into the opening passage. Amazing keyboards and guitar around the 4:00 minute mark herald a change to the track, with Becks voice starting to build the track up, and indeed, assuming a style not dissimilar to one Kate Bush. The bass and drums have almost imperceptibly crept more into the mix, and although there is a hint of “metronomic” drumming, it never detracts from the flow of the track. Another track that can be both light and dark when it requires and at times, the keyboards can be persuaded to howl and growl to generate the required atmosphere.

“Crossing of the Ways” (10:10) is a beautiful piece of melodic prog rock with the bass driving the track along and the powerful voice carrying everything along with it. Coming as a real contrast to what has gone before simply adds to the presence of the track. The final track, “State Of Grace” (13:38) features celestial choirs, tubular bells, stunning guitar work, more of that wide range of vocals that Beck is capable of and simply sumptuous synthesized orchestrations.

Spirit is an album that deserves to be “massive” and I cannot recommend this work highly enough. Carrying both stickers, “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last forever” on the cover, my advice is to clear a little space on your CD shelf and treat yourself to a stunningly atmospheric album.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Leap Of Faith, Wood For The Trees, A Tangled Skein

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

February 17, 2014

Tracks:
Leap Of Faith
Wood For The Trees
A Tangled Skein
Crossing Of The Ways
State Of Grace 

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Progressive Rock Review: Transatlantic-Kaleidoscope (Special Edition)

Progressive rock enthusiasts get to enjoy another epic journey of musical wonders from the talent laden band Transatlantic. The prog rock royalty of Neal Morse, Mike Portnoy, Roine Stolt and Pete Trewavas have done it again on their fourth slice of musical genius with Kaleidoscope.

 

I know the word epic is overused within this community however there is no other apt word to describe what they have accomplished yet again on this recording.

If you are going to purchase this album make it worth your while and get the special edition with the bonus CD and DVD, you will not be sorry. The “Making Of” is always so much fun to take in. Everything is done at Neal’s studio and it shows the listeners how the entire project is constructed from day one. The setting couldn’t by any more intimate as it brings you into Neal’s kitchen at lunch while the band members discuss the day’s events and their ideas for each track. This is a part of the Transatlantic releases I always look forward to. There is plenty to enjoy and laugh about as always so it is a welcome addition.

On to the meat and potatoes now…the opening track "Into The Blue" is a prog rock omnibus encompassing a 5 part suite taking up a lofty 25:11 of the first disc. It is a grand way to open the curtain for this amazing super group. The first part is “Overture (instrumental)” which leads you into “The Dreamer And The Healer” then on to “A New Beginning” to “Written In Your Heart” and finalized with “The Dreamer And The Healer (reprise). Every aspect of this band is here in this suite for your anxious ears to consume. The songs link together like Mother Nature and the food chain while ebbing and flowing like the tides of the oceans. It is all done in true classic prog fashion like their forefathers Yes. 

What makes this machine work is their obvious chemistry, the undying love for all progressive music and lastly and most importantly, the multitude of talents every member has to offer. It is an all-inclusive display of those factors. This band’s respect for the music and from whence it came is written in their own signature sound. Their star shines so brightly with the first track then again comes out in many colors (indeed like a Kaleidoscope) on the fantastic cover songs on the bonus disc. Everyone gets their opportunity to contribute vocals and instrumentation and it all folds nicely into one whole entity to make Transatlantic a special kind of experience.

I like the fact that Mike is singing more all the time, he has so much energy and personality and his voice just lights up a room. His voice is very distinct and I for one like it. His choice of covering the Procol Harum classic “Conquistador” is well suited to his tone and approach. "Indiscipline (King Crimson cover)" is a superb prog classic done very well. With all of its twists and turns it was tailor made for this band to cover. As to be expected all of the instrumentation is exceptional and I think what makes it even more special for the band is that they really are all friends enjoying the process of creating. It becomes obvious while watching the video footage in the studio and around Neal’s home. As a fan and appreciative listener I feel like I became a part of this recording in a different way when I experienced their “process” as they went through it.

Now to close the curtain they do it again with another huge musical mountain climb to the zenith of prog rock with the title track “Kaleidoscope.” This one exceeds the first epic coming in at 31:53. Everything sandwiched in between is excellent as well. “Shine” is a deeply touching spiritual track that fits in Neal’s back pocket like a well-worn glove. If you look at the titles of the tracks they cover the range of emotions one can have during the course of a day. This music spurs on emotions within and that is the whole point right? They succeed in many ways from where this listener sits. The complexities of the music do not overshadow the human touch on this recording, you can feel the music every step of the way and that is the beauty and simplicity of it. Complex yet simple- complete opposites of the spectrum yet it does work out that way in spite of the differences between the two.

Everything about Transatlantic is unique, inspirational and musically solid. What they offer is musical perfection, prog rock nirvana and the complete musical experience. If you walk away from Kaleidoscope unsatisfied or unfulfilled you had better check the obituaries to make sure you are not listed. The members of this band are the keepers of the flame and the literal heartbeat of prog music today. It is highly recommended that you to listen to what they have to offer.

5/5 Stars 

Key Tracks: Kaleidoscope, Into The Blue, Indiscipline (King Crimson cover)

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Prog Rock Music Talk Founder

February 13, 2014

Tracks:

CD1:
Into The Blue (25:13)
Shine (7:28)
Black As the Sky (6:45)
Beyond The Sun (4:31)
Kaleidoscope (31:53)

CD2 (Bonus CD):

    And You And I (Yes cover) (10:45)
    Can't Get It Out Of My Head (ELO cover) (4:46)
    Conquistador (Procol Harum cover) (4:13)
    Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (Elton John) (3:20)
    Tin Soldier (Small Faces cover) (3:22)
    Sylvia (Focus cover) (3:49)
    Indiscipline (King Crimson cover) (4:45)
    Nights In White Satin (The Moody Blues cover) (6:13)

DVD:

1.    The Making of Kaleidoscope
2.    Shine Video Clip
3.    Prog Awards Behind The Scenes
 

Progressive Rock Review: Transatlantic-Kaleidoscope (Special Edition)

Progressive rock enthusiasts get to enjoy another epic journey of musical wonders from the talent laden band Transatlantic. The prog rock royalty of Neal Morse, Mike Portnoy, Roine Stolt and Pete Trewavas have done it again on their fourth slice of musical genius with Kaleidoscope.

 

I know the word epic is overused within this community however there is no other apt word to describe what they have accomplished yet again on this recording.

If you are going to purchase this album make it worth your while and get the special edition with the bonus CD and DVD, you will not be sorry. The “Making Of” is always so much fun to take in. Everything is done at Neal’s studio and it shows the listeners how the entire project is constructed from day one. The setting couldn’t by any more intimate as it brings you into Neal’s kitchen at lunch while the band members discuss the day’s events and their ideas for each track. This is a part of the Transatlantic releases I always look forward to. There is plenty to enjoy and laugh about as always so it is a welcome addition.

On to the meat and potatoes now…the opening track "Into The Blue" is a prog rock omnibus encompassing a 5 part suite taking up a lofty 25:11 of the first disc. It is a grand way to open the curtain for this amazing super group. The first part is “Overture (instrumental)” which leads you into “The Dreamer And The Healer” then on to “A New Beginning” to “Written In Your Heart” and finalized with “The Dreamer And The Healer (reprise). Every aspect of this band is here in this suite for your anxious ears to consume. The songs link together like Mother Nature and the food chain while ebbing and flowing like the tides of the oceans. It is all done in true classic prog fashion like their forefathers Yes. 

What makes this machine work is their obvious chemistry, the undying love for all progressive music and lastly and most importantly, the multitude of talents every member has to offer. It is an all-inclusive display of those factors. This band’s respect for the music and from whence it came is written in their own signature sound. Their star shines so brightly with the first track then again comes out in many colors (indeed like a Kaleidoscope) on the fantastic cover songs on the bonus disc. Everyone gets their opportunity to contribute vocals and instrumentation and it all folds nicely into one whole entity to make Transatlantic a special kind of experience.

I like the fact that Mike is singing more all the time, he has so much energy and personality and his voice just lights up a room. His voice is very distinct and I for one like it. His choice of covering the Procol Harum classic “Conquistador” is well suited to his tone and approach. "Indiscipline (King Crimson cover)" is a superb prog classic done very well. With all of its twists and turns it was tailor made for this band to cover. As to be expected all of the instrumentation is exceptional and I think what makes it even more special for the band is that they really are all friends enjoying the process of creating. It becomes obvious while watching the video footage in the studio and around Neal’s home. As a fan and appreciative listener I feel like I became a part of this recording in a different way when I experienced their “process” as they went through it.

Now to close the curtain they do it again with another huge musical mountain climb to the zenith of prog rock with the title track “Kaleidoscope.” This one exceeds the first epic coming in at 31:53. Everything sandwiched in between is excellent as well. “Shine” is a deeply touching spiritual track that fits in Neal’s back pocket like a well-worn glove. If you look at the titles of the tracks they cover the range of emotions one can have during the course of a day. This music spurs on emotions within and that is the whole point right? They succeed in many ways from where this listener sits. The complexities of the music do not overshadow the human touch on this recording, you can feel the music every step of the way and that is the beauty and simplicity of it. Complex yet simple- complete opposites of the spectrum yet it does work out that way in spite of the differences between the two.

Everything about Transatlantic is unique, inspirational and musically solid. What they offer is musical perfection, prog rock nirvana and the complete musical experience. If you walk away from Kaleidoscope unsatisfied or unfulfilled you had better check the obituaries to make sure you are not listed. The members of this band are the keepers of the flame and the literal heartbeat of prog music today. It is highly recommended that you to listen to what they have to offer.

5/5 Stars 

Key Tracks: Kaleidoscope, Into The Blue, Indiscipline (King Crimson cover)

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Prog Rock Music Talk Founder

February 13, 2014

Tracks:

CD1:
Into The Blue (25:13)
Shine (7:28)
Black As the Sky (6:45)
Beyond The Sun (4:31)
Kaleidoscope (31:53)

CD2 (Bonus CD):

    And You And I (Yes cover) (10:45)
    Can't Get It Out Of My Head (ELO cover) (4:46)
    Conquistador (Procol Harum cover) (4:13)
    Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (Elton John) (3:20)
    Tin Soldier (Small Faces cover) (3:22)
    Sylvia (Focus cover) (3:49)
    Indiscipline (King Crimson cover) (4:45)
    Nights In White Satin (The Moody Blues cover) (6:13)

DVD:

1.    The Making of Kaleidoscope
2.    Shine Video Clip
3.    Prog Awards Behind The Scenes
 

Progressive Rock Review: Dreadnaught-Have a Drink With Dreadnaught

Release Date:August 30, 2013

Label: Red Fez Records

Website

Dreadnaught might not be a familiar name to many, but it is never too late to get acquainted. Based out of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Dreadnaught consists of Rick Habib (drums, vocals), Bob Lord (bass, vocals), and Justin Walton (6 string guitar, vocals).  This “totally and utterly deranged” trio has been making their special blend of music for some 17 years, and their new EP Have a Drink With Dreadnaught shows them at the top of their game. It is a masterful achievement and these 5 totally different and unique songs are unforgettable. 

“Corrupticus 5” is a smooth, hopping country-inspired tune that is sure to have feet tapping and heads bobbing.  The carefree, open road nature of the song is enhanced by the pleasant vocal harmonies that make for the perfect sing-along jam.  And I cannot forget about the guitars, which never fail to impress and take the song to that extra level of musical magic.  “Surface Raid” gets the blood pumping with its manic energy.  It has an overall atmosphere of a trippy space adventure, like a dark dream that you never want to wake up from. 

“The Bear” is a playful tune with a carnival-like atmosphere, featuring strong dual vocals.  “Jpf” is almost hard to describe with all that is going on in it. It has a bit of pop, rock, and progressive rock elements, all mixed into one to make for one sweet treat of a song.  Saving the best for last, “Trophy Bride” absolutely dazzles with its soaring guitars and delightful musical twists and turns.  

Have a Drink With Dreadnaught is musicianship at its finest.  This is the type of music that will stay will you long after the last note has been played.  This EP contains some of the most progressive and experimental rock that I have ever heard.  Every song is different with its own soul.  If there were ever a band and an album to take a chance on, then Dreadnaught and Have a Drink With Dreadnaught are it.  

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Brian McKinnon

February 5, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Progressive Rock Review: Dreadnaught-Have a Drink With Dreadnaught

Release Date:August 30, 2013

Label: Red Fez Records

Website

Dreadnaught might not be a familiar name to many, but it is never too late to get acquainted. Based out of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Dreadnaught consists of Rick Habib (drums, vocals), Bob Lord (bass, vocals), and Justin Walton (6 string guitar, vocals).  This “totally and utterly deranged” trio has been making their special blend of music for some 17 years, and their new EP Have a Drink With Dreadnaught shows them at the top of their game. It is a masterful achievement and these 5 totally different and unique songs are unforgettable.

“Corrupticus 5” is a smooth, hopping country-inspired tune that is sure to have feet tapping and heads bobbing.  The carefree, open road nature of the song is enhanced by the pleasant vocal harmonies that make for the perfect sing-along jam.  And I cannot forget about the guitars, which never fail to impress and take the song to that extra level of musical magic.  “Surface Raid” gets the blood pumping with its manic energy.  It has an overall atmosphere of a trippy space adventure, like a dark dream that you never want to wake up from. 

“The Bear” is a playful tune with a carnival-like atmosphere, featuring strong dual vocals.  “Jpf” is almost hard to describe with all that is going on in it. It has a bit of pop, rock, and progressive rock elements, all mixed into one to make for one sweet treat of a song.  Saving the best for last, “Trophy Bride” absolutely dazzles with its soaring guitars and delightful musical twists and turns.  

Have a Drink With Dreadnaught is musicianship at its finest.  This is the type of music that will stay will you long after the last note has been played.  This EP contains some of the most progressive and experimental rock that I have ever heard.  Every song is different with its own soul.  If there were ever a band and an album to take a chance on, then Dreadnaught and Have a Drink With Dreadnaught are it. 

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: ALL

Brian McKinnon

February 5, 2014

Review Provided By Write A Music Review

Progressive Rock Review: Looking Glass Lantern- A Tapestry of Tales

 

Another debut album up for review by The Ancient One, this time A Tapestry of Tales, by Looking Glass Lantern. This is a majestic album, having already featured extensively on the radio show. Looking Glass Lantern is, in fact, the name under which Graham Dunnington, a classically trained multi-instrumentalist, has conceived and delivered an album that takes the “classic” prog rock style and marries it with the underlying influences of classical music. The outcome of putting those two styles into the “music blender” and pressing “very gentle mix” results in an amazing album, across which majestic music and excellent lyrical content abounds.

Graham was originally a keyboard player in a classically influenced rock band and this led to a small idea starting to grow. Taking some time out, Graham did various things, one of which was to complete a PhD in music, specifically, Victorian Popular music. All of the parts were then put together, superb keyboard skills, Victorian music style, and, the “icing on the cake,” Sherlock Holmes stories. A Tapestry of Tales is an album based around some of the fictional detective’s most famous cases.

Graham plays almost everything on the album, keyboards, guitar, programmed the drum machine (apparently referred to as Al), and sings. The violin is the only instrument that Graham doesn’t lay claim to.

A Tapestry of Tales is a 6 track album which has a total playing time of around 48 minutes, with the longest track, “A Scandal in Bohemia” clocking in at 13:29 minutes and “Wisteria Lodge,” the shortest track at 1:45 minutes.

There are three long tracks and three much shorter tracks making up A Tapestry Of Tales, with the opening track, “The Blue Carbuncle” (12:54), starting proceedings off with a beautifully played solo violin, which then stops to allow a keyboard swathe of sound heralding the track as it progresses through a superb passage, harpsichord et al, onto the vocals just prior to the 3 minute mark. The storyline continues, backed by the music that sweeps majestically along, hitting the heights at times, then dropping gently into line behind the voice. The “classic” prog keyboard sounds within this opening track are mesmerizing and so it comes as a little surprise when it finishes, as almost 13 minutes have come and gone so quickly.

The second of the “epic” tracks is “A Scandal in Bohemia” (13:29) which again envelopes the listener in those stunning keyboard passages, framing another Holmes story. The skills of Graham shine through as the track moves through the range from soft, gentle passages, to the more insistent, driving passages. Harpsichord and church organ sounds sweep through the track and the listener is swept up in the music as it paints another superb aural soundscape.

The third in the “epic” trilogy of tracks, is the title track, “A Tapestry Of Tales” (9:46) and within moments, the deep warm sounds of stunning keyboards, weaving between the vocals, allows the listener to drift into another superbly crafted soundscape. When this, the last track is finishes, the urge is to settle back and listen to the entire album again.

“Six Pearls To Mary” (5:46), “Two Solitary Men” (4:28) and “Wisteria Lodge” (1:45) are certainly no less interesting for being shorter, with the first two mirroring the swathes of keyboard style of the longer tracks, while “Wisteria Lodge” is a gentle wistful acoustic guitar instrumental.

My advice is indeed very simple, buy this album, which has both “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last Forever” stickers on it, and let your mind go on an amazing journey. Further advice would be to start saving for album No 2, again based around Sherlock Holmes, but this time the music is on one major Holmes case. If I had to place a bet, I might be tempted to go for “The Hound of the Baskervilles,” but Graham refuses to be drawn on this. The second album is scheduled for release later this year.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Blue Carbuncle, A Scandal In Bohemia, A Tapestry Of Tales

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

February 4, 2014

Tracks:
The Blue Carbuncle
Six Pearls To Mary
Two Solitary Men
Scandal In Bohemia
Wisteria Lodge
A Tapestry Of Tales
 

Progressive Rock Review: Looking Glass Lantern- A Tapestry of Tales

Release Date: 17^thSeptember 2013

Label:    Looking Glass Recordings

Website

Another debut album up for review by The Ancient One, this time A Tapestry of Tales, by Looking Glass Lantern. This is a majestic album, having already featured extensively on the radio show. Looking Glass Lantern is, in fact, the name under which Graham Dunnington, a classically trained multi-instrumentalist, has conceived and delivered an album that takes the “classic” prog rock style and marries it with the underlying influences of classical music. The outcome of putting those two styles into the “music blender” and pressing “very gentle mix” results in an amazing album, across which majestic music and excellent lyrical content abounds.

Graham was originally a keyboard player in a classically influenced rock band and this led to a small idea starting to grow. Taking some time out, Graham did various things, one of which was to complete a PhD in music, specifically, Victorian Popular music. All of the parts were then put together, superb keyboard skills, Victorian music style, and, the “icing on the cake,” Sherlock Holmes stories. A Tapestry of Tales is an album based around some of the fictional detective’s most famous cases.

Graham plays almost everything on the album, keyboards, guitar, programmed the drum machine (apparently referred to as Al), and sings. The violin is the only instrument that Graham doesn’t lay claim to.

A Tapestry of Tales is a 6 track album which has a total playing time of around 48 minutes, with the longest track, “A Scandal in Bohemia” clocking in at 13:29 minutes and “Wisteria Lodge,” the shortest track at 1:45 minutes.

There are three long tracks and three much shorter tracks making up A Tapestry Of Tales, with the opening track, “The Blue Carbuncle” (12:54), starting proceedings off with a beautifully played solo violin, which then stops to allow a keyboard swathe of sound heralding the track as it progresses through a superb passage, harpsichord et al, onto the vocals just prior to the 3 minute mark. The storyline continues, backed by the music that sweeps majestically along, hitting the heights at times, then dropping gently into line behind the voice. The “classic” prog keyboard sounds within this opening track are mesmerizing and so it comes as a little surprise when it finishes, as almost 13 minutes have come and gone so quickly.

The second of the “epic” tracks is “A Scandal in Bohemia” (13:29) which again envelopes the listener in those stunning keyboard passages, framing another Holmes story. The skills of Graham shine through as the track moves through the range from soft, gentle passages, to the more insistent, driving passages. Harpsichord and church organ sounds sweep through the track and the listener is swept up in the music as it paints another superb aural soundscape.

The third in the “epic” trilogy of tracks, is the title track, “A Tapestry Of Tales” (9:46) and within moments, the deep warm sounds of stunning keyboards, weaving between the vocals, allows the listener to drift into another superbly crafted soundscape. When this, the last track is finishes, the urge is to settle back and listen to the entire album again.

“Six Pearls To Mary” (5:46), “Two Solitary Men” (4:28) and “Wisteria Lodge” (1:45) are certainly no less interesting for being shorter, with the first two mirroring the swathes of keyboard style of the longer tracks, while “Wisteria Lodge” is a gentle wistful acoustic guitar instrumental.

My advice is indeed very simple, buy this album, which has both “One to Buy” and “The Experience will last Forever” stickers on it, and let your mind go on an amazing journey. Further advice would be to start saving for album No 2, again based around Sherlock Holmes, but this time the music is on one major Holmes case. If I had to place a bet, I might be tempted to go for “The Hound of the Baskervilles,” but Graham refuses to be drawn on this. The second album is scheduled for release later this year.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: The Blue Carbuncle, A Scandal In Bohemia, A Tapestry Of Tales

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

February 4, 2014

Tracks:
The Blue Carbuncle
Six Pearls To Mary
Two Solitary Men
Scandal In Bohemia
Wisteria Lodge
A Tapestry Of Tales
 

Progressive Rock Review: Imagery-The Inner Journey

Release Date: 19^thNov 2013

Label:  Cleopatra

Website 

Imagery, the Brazilian progressive band, was formed in 2008, but all members of the band have had experience within the Brazilian rock/metal scene for several years prior to coming together. The debut album, The Inner Journey, is a journey through the world of progressive metal/rock, played by extremely skilled musicians. The band list their influences as ranging from The Beatles through to Pink Floyd, Yes, Genesis, Rush, ELP, Iron Maiden, Dream Theater and more.

Imagery is a four piece band currently comprising, Joceir Bertoni (vocals, guitars), Ricardo Fanucchi (bass), Henrique Loureiro (keyboards) and Bruno Pamplona (vocals, drums). Joceir and Ricardo have played together for ten years and they were then joined by Henrique and Luciano Neves (drums) to record the album. Since that recording, Bruno has replaced Luciano on the drum stool.

The Inner Journey is an 8 track album, with a total playing time of around 43 minutes. The shortest track on the album is “Show Me” with a running time of 3:37 minutes and the final track, aptly named “Last,” is the longest, at just over 8 minutes (8:12).

“Fourth Secret” (4:50) is a powerful heavy instrumental slab of progressive music, rich in melodies, and the band are quickly into their stride and the track fairly motors along. The amazing keyboard work, coupled with the guitar riffs and the very solid rhythm engine ensures that the listener is soon sucked into the music. Opportunities arise to allow the keyboards, guitar and the piano to take a shot at center stage, and almost before the listener has realized it, “Fourth Secret” has morphed into “Imagery,” the next track. “Imagery” (5:57) continues the heavy onslaught and I found it to be very reminiscent of Thin Lizzy in the early stages, but soon the track changes tack, and tempo, into a superbly structured melodic track. This slows down to walking pace, letting the superb piano and measured guitar melody dance across the rhythm and carry the track along. The vocals, which appeared at the start were initially of the “heavy rock” style, but are almost laid back when they reappear around the 5 minute mark.

“Perception” (6:13), harks back to the style of the opening track, with exquisite piano from time to time, “Start The War” (4:01), “The Rain” (5:46) and “Stranger” (4:43) continue the driving heavy style with more than a little swagger. A much lighter inclusion is that of track 6, “Show Me” (3:37) which is very gentle with acoustic guitars and a slower tempo, together with a vocal that is very easy on the ear, and immaculate drums and bass playing.

“Last” (8:12), is the album tour de force, and starts off with a memorable riff, terrific bass playing and those amazing organ passages and swirls. Clever time changes, excellent playing and a spoken vocal section, all add to the interest of the listener. The ending of the track “Last,” sees the band slowly fading out from around the 7 minute mark and that is it, all 43 minutes of an impressive debut album.

As a debut album, I find The Inner Journey to be very good, but my main concern, is that The Inner Journey doesn’t have that “je ne sais quoi” that makes it stand out from the pack. A fine introduction to the band, Imagery, with terrific snapshots of some majestic work, but lacking a little in the overall  “wow, that’s a cracker” stakes, although enough is shown to want to hear where the musical evolution between debut and follow-up, will take the band.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Fourth Secret, Imagery, Last

Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson

January 30, 2014

Tracks:

Fourth Secret

Imagery

Perception

Start The war

The Rain

Show Me

Stranger

Last