Planet X - Universe (ger InSideout 00)
Three piece instrumental progressive metal!.. I really wasn't going to like this at all, that was until I was over half way in and this was growing on me, LOTS. I found enough inside all the music to hold my mind with out finding myself getting bored. Derek Sherinian keyboards, Virgil Donati, drums and Tony MacAlpine guitar. All are more than accomplished musicians in their own field Wth this project they pool their resources to bring together a strong offering. If you find yourself enjoying most items that fall into the PROGRESSIVE METAL genre then this will win for you. An hours worth of high octane rock. Tracks worth a mention are opener Clones, the stunning King of the Universe, Chocalate and Bitch. (MJ)
Mystery - At the dawn of a new Millennium (Ca uni 00)
Lots of focus has been placed upon this millennium, here Mystery have a reason to focus on this. After three releases with frontman Gary Savoie, they found themselves looking for a new lead voice, with Gary gone this is going to be a hard act to follow. This releases is a "Greatest Hits"?, not really, but an over sight of a their three previous releases. The only one I'd heard was the excellent Destiny, here tracks are pulled from Mystery (their first), Theatre of the Mind and Destiny. Mystery play an intelligent brand of progressive rock. The main pointer for me was the way Gary Savoie sounded so much like Steve Perry of Journey fame, by now, I would think he's a little fed up with this, but he does sound like him. This is by no ways an aim to draw away from the rest of the band musically they hold the game together. There's a lot of sounds in this band, from UK progressive bands of the 70's and 80's, US based stadium rock bands, and much more, the list could go on and on. What I would say is that if like myself, you are a progressive rock fan, try this shoe for size. Then work backwards through Mystery's releases. There so much to be found inside of this band from haunting acoustic parts to out and out pomp rock!. All the cuts here are strong, Black Roses, Before The dawn, Shadow of the Lake are just some. Why this band has never broken into the mainstream is going to remain a MYSTERY............................(TiM)
Maureen Anderson's Shapeshifter - Unwrapping the Familiar (UK Ultimate Transmissions 00)
Definitely over on the side of strange and all the better for it. Maureen Anderson and her band plough a maverick furrow through the sensibilities of those who listen. On the label it states 'poetry, song, Psychedelic music' and that is exactly what you get. Gong like synths swoop and burble with Maureen sounding a lot like Lady June or Nico in places. Spoken word passages are underpinned by an extremely efficient and smooth backing. Feelings of pagan pasts are evoked by the almost ritual sounding intonation of the lyrics. Small improvisational passages intersperse the main tracks with some very authentic ethnic sounds. Conscious lyrics are a feature of this disc and Maureen raises political issues of both global and personal matter, with large dashings of green common sense. Wholeheartedly recommended for everybody with a brain and a conscience!(CB)
No web address but the label is at:
Ultima Thule
1 Conduit Street
Leicester
LE2 0JN UK
Tel 0116 265 4545 fax 0116 285 4555
Krabat - 22 (Che blackrils 00)
German band who play unashamed progressive rock, influenced by such as Zappa, Crimson and more (Their quote not mine). From the music it's not hard to see why, first I like this, but found it a little bit hard going on my ears at times. Non professional band playing music they want to, given that there are no restrictions on what they can do, the voice of Anja Wylezol at times doesn't even get into words, just letting emotions run from her body on the opening Fandango. The playing is as good as you expect from a full time band, the tracks are long, so have freedom to move which suits this Jazz based atmosphere. The vocals (when there is) are in German, I found this not off putting, but would have liked to have known what each song was about. For anybody who likes this style of music, then this one wins from the off, excellent playing, intriguing layout to the songs, and sublime at times vocals. For those looking for a new thrill, this might just be a little to hard a starting point. Looking back over the Zappa and Crimson, yes there is plenty there to draw on, but also I found there is fresh feel too, this band want to play this music, and do so for the enjoyment of it, I guess that's what music is and always has been about. Anyone with a mind to find out more can do so at the bands site..................
Gnidrolog - Gnosis (UK snailrecords 00)
Back with a new release after nearly 30 years!. It seems there are so many bands trying this one right now. Gindrolog were one of those 70's UK progressive bands who did a couple of albums and then fell into obscurity. Well after years away they now issued a CD full of interesting (to say the least) tracks. They have worked into these 14 tracks influence's from around the world, recorded in Australia in the main with other bits recorded back in London. Opening with Reach for tomorrow, this starts with an almost Arabic feel. Second track Reverend Katz, is six minutes of progressive rock for today. Strong with the guitars and rhythm section. Bells of prozac, is again very reliant on the current progressive scene. With Kings of Rock the band work with a slower number that builds. The recruiting of Rick Kemp and keeping as much of the original line up as they could, brothers and band main stay Colin and Stewart Goldring, the band are finished of with original drummer Nigel Pegrum and new member Nesa Glen on keys. For anyone who owns both their two original LP's on RCA (Harry's toes, and the very sought after Lady Lake) then this CD with come as a extra summer treat. As for many new fans, this is to be seen, there are some excellent flashes of total progressive outplay, but also I found a couple of the tracks to be a little weak, although there is a lot in this CD worth looking at, some nice folk touches and some intelligent use of world instrumentation at times, did I hear a digeridoo?. I'v come across bands before who have done a "reunion" tour or LP only to find the freshness was long gone. I don't think this is an attempt at that, more an attempt by accomplished musicians taking thing to a more natural conclusion. Older fans will love this, for new progressive rock fans It's worth a listen, or at the very least a visit to the bands web site. (TiM)
Pallas - The Sentinel and The Wedge (Eu InsideOut 00)
I was taken to a late night music club at the age of 16, to find on stage a band playing a type of music I'd heard very little of at the time PROGRESSIVE ROCK. It was my first time seeing Pallas, and not the last. Leaving at 2 am I knew my love for this band would continue for a number of years, as it has. Anyone who read my review of their 1998 recording will know just how much I like this band. Both these discs are reissues of the LP's Pallas recorded for EMI in the 80's.
Firstly The Sentinel is a lavish piece produced by Eddie Offord (YES, ELP), a conceptual idea based on the legend of Atlantis. Recorded in the US and released in early 1984, Pallas were kicking hard on the heels of emerging Progster's and label mates Marillion. The vocals on these recording come from Euan Lowson, his vocal talent working well within this setting. Pushed hard by EMI this is a great example of the style of many of the early 80's progressive bands that were around at the time. The CD differs from the original LP, keeping its original fantasy artwork, and adding a few unseen pictures; the running order is also changed to the original EMI release. Added are the single B's sides that didn't make it at the time due to the limited time span vinyl had. With the added tracks you get tales of a land at war with itself and in this case no one can win. The only weak cut is the infamous Pallas track Eye's in the Night (Arrive Alive), the rest is all well worked, making good use of bass, guitars and keys. To my ears this was and still is the most intriguing of all the 80's progressive LP's. March on Atlantis, Heart Attack, Eastwest, all have an air of mystery to them. After a tour of the UK which included a wonderfully designed stage set and outlandish theatrical production, the pressure on Pallas to come up with commercial success was too great, drinking coffee, I recall reading in the music press, Pallas had parted company with their long running front-man. Was all that I had loved in the last year all gone? Would Pallas split? Was I ever going to see such stage antics again? I feared not. For those who where lucky enough to see Pallas with Euan, then this for me was the pinnacle of progressive rock, with all the stage craft he held, Euan worked his magic. The CD, enhanced for the PC, includes for the first time some rare video footage of Euan on stage, giving those who never saw Pallas live at this time, the chance to start to imagine what might have been if the forces from above had left well alone.
The Wedge was released in the following year, after the search for a new singer the band finally settled for Alan Reed, a young face who had been in Scottish band Abel Ganz at the time. This release was more in tune with the thoughts of EMI, the tracks shorter and punchier, aiming more at the mainstream rock market. Although containing some progressive classics in, Imagination, and The Executioner. As such a big fan of Euan I never though I could come to like anyone else fronting Pallas, but Alan Reed is one of those rock voices it's hard to overlook. The CD kicks off with a guitar led Dance through the fire, followed by Throwing Stones at the wind (exactly how Pallas where feeling about EMI at that time) both these tracks where catchy rock tunes, which would have done much better if EMI had worked as hard with Pallas has there were by now doing with Marillion. Side stepped and overlooked Pallas toured without much success at the time, falling short of the high hopes everyone had held for them 18 months previously. This was due more to the lack of label input than the effort Pallas where putting in. The CD adds, The KnightMoves EP which was issued prior to The Wedge, as a taster for the forthcoming LP, three tracks, Stranger, Sanctuary, and Nightmare, the first of these tracks is a another pop/rock number, again aiming for chat success. Sanctuary, a 9-minute plus track crafting it's way around keyboards, guitar you can feel the emotions rise to the surface here. The final track Nightmare is again an attempt at finding some sort of commercial success. The CD again is enhanced for the PC more rare live video footage and unseen pictures to go with it.
Here you have two hours worth of well-blended progressive rock, Pallas were and still are for me, a band I've enjoyed the music of now for nearly 20 years. I'm sure if you have never come across them before, then now is the time to investigate, The Sentinel is a classic progressive piece. The Wedge shows how Pallas grew and developed into one of the most neglected rock bands in the 80's. Maybe if Marillion hadn't found such a wider audience, EMI would have put into Pallas the time and effort they deserved and would have expected to get. At last available on CD (thankfully as my vinyl copies were looking a little worn out) to anyone who wants to find out more, thanks to Inside Out.
Kurgans Bane - The furture lies broken (US private 00)
This as far as I know is the second release from 4 piece US band Kurgans Bane, switching from previous voice of Alan Jentz to Lisa Francis. I had not heard their first disc, so no comparisons here, what I will say is that Lisa could hold her own in any rock band. She has a powerful voice with a wide range. Kurgans Bane are a hard rock out fitr with some progressive touches. This isn't just progressive metal, there's more at play here. Taken their lead from many bands Kurgans have a crafted art form. The tracks are all strong and include both longer and shorter numbers, from the opening Through the Camera, one of the more direct rock cut, Bad Blood a deeper in mood here, winding voice around the guitars. Nap In E Minor a classical guitar number, and final cut Regina 8 minutes of conceived work, trying to include every movement of the band. The guitars of Pete Laramee shine from time with a strong bass and back line to. With more time I'm convinced Kurgans could make a name amongst the rock fans.
Orbis Pictus - same (NL private 00)
Short 7-track disc from the Netherlands. Immediately reminiscent of prime Siouxsie and the Banshees circa 'All Join Hands'. A definite Gothic gloom overshadows this disc with song titles like 'denial', 'Hurt' and 'the Flesh'. The spirit of Nico and the Velvets are invoked on this last track with some success. Not the usual herbally enhanced music that we would expect to come from an album recorded in Amsterdam. Dark music for reflective and hurting souls.(CB)
Gia - After was before ( US private 00)
This CD had been taking up space in my 'In-Tray" now for far too long, so now was the time to try again, I had when it first arrived here tried to listen to this but passed over it. Gia is from eastern Europe moved to Israel before setting now in Canada. A much traveled musical journey man, who along the way has learnt his art of playing and composing music. The CD is a double disc offering on first listen you are greeted to a European style disco-pop tune (thankfully for only two minutes), I think this is why I passed over it for a few weeks, but give it chance and you start to enter into something a little more entertaining. This CD is not going to have you running for cover. It's polite well worked out keyboard based opus, drawing on all fronts to form a mix of classical, newage and some progressive rock touches. The opener for me could kill the CD dead for some, but I came back and maybe if you are into the Rick Wakeman's and likes of, you should too. Long tracks of over 20 minutes each, The Purpose, and Gia's resume on disc one. While over onto disc two we get for me the most interesting of all the tracks Metamorphosis of gebeleizis, and 12 minute TD like number. Anyone who can have the courage of their own convictions and releases 2 hours plus of their work has to be given credit. If you enjoy keyboard synths sound structures, there may be enough here to consider parting with some of your hard earned money.
Maria Marocka - 'SoLo-Fi' (US evol egg nart recordings 00)
Basically an offshoot from the Curious Hair, this is a much more basic affair. Female vocal driven rock and folk tinged tunes in an almost Violent Femmes style. This recording features many of the same musicians as the Curious Hair recording but with a less artificial atmosphere. Some nice touches in the arrangements and instrumentation of this album make it stand out as a bit special. If female vocals are your cup of tea you could do a lot worse than checking this release out. (CB)
PEEKABUDDHA - Soul Fooled (US Private 00)
Hard driving in your face rock from New Jersey. Tight as a nut and not afraid to rock these guys brought to mind Pearl Jam but without the streak of miserabilism that characterises Eddie Vedders lot. Under the bluster and energetic drumming there are some nice psych guitar touches, this band hasn't just gone out and bought a 'generic grunge fuzz' sound but have put a little thought into their sound. Just when you think that you've got the band sussed and everything's sorted they pull out the electronica card and add another string to their musical bow.(CB)
Prussian Blue - Child (UK tigga 00)
I'd done a review of their last release a few months ago, on Zielasko Prussian Blue had very much folk/rock based sound, now it was only about 6 months ago when I reviewed that releases, but the release was already a year old, since then I have been waiting on this one to hit my desk. Prussian Blue,have now moved on , this release has a more guitar based rock influence, still with the same vocals from Kate Gee the 7 tracks run for just over 27 minutes, which for me was slightly short. From the opener Child of the City, this CD goes full force to make you stand up and take note of it. Track 2 Rolling Stone find them in a more moodier feel, slowing things down a little with a laid back guitar and keys sound. City of Lights is again a strong moody feeling guitar based number, while Don't look Back finds thing to have a more acoustic feel, this goes only to show the bands have the ability to move styles around. To find a group who can move on musically and then still find them as appealing as I find Prussian Blue has to be a good thing. I would strongly advise anyone who has a interest in good rock based music to and go check out the Prussian Blue web site, or like myself, if you live in the UK, and find them playing live near you, go and see just how good they are.
Horns - Throttlerod (US demo CD 00)
Four tracks of mother rippin stoner from Columbia USA. This kicks ass all the way, drivin guitars from start to finish, with large amounts of attitude added, this is almost metal with punk. The four tracks American Guadalupe, Wifebeater, Trailblazer, and The Platter all had the neighbors running for cover round here. Lookin for hard driving metal with afresh approach, go check out the Horns........... (KD)
Obscured by Clouds - Bleed (US private 99)
This I thought would be one of those CD's that needed very little thought or effort to look over. Pink Floyd cover band playing Pink Floyd covers. I'm unsure about in the US and the rest of the world but in the UK we have this tribute band and that tribute band, which includes a fair share of Floyd soudalikes. I'm no great fan of bands doing another band stuff, but here OBC have done as a good a job as anyone could expect. Tracks include Bleed (obviously) That's the way, Pigs on the wing, Breathe and more. What you see is what you get, a three piece from Portland, doing a fine job on music they love so much, and much better than I had first thought when this got here, for Floyd fans who like to hear other's doing Floyd this is more than an average attempt, but saying that I would still have liked to heard a full CD's worth of music from OBC of their own stuff, as this band can play. (CB)
Kotebel - Structures (Spa private 00)
Split into 7 sections (Structures 1 to 7) this is nearly 50 minutes in length. This is a full instrumental CD with a lot of movement around the tracks, keyboards guitar's and much more going on. The CD cover states out that this is "not a group, but a musical project". The music has a progressive rock base to it's sound, but is interplayed with a wider verity of sounds. None of the tracks follow the the previous tracks the way I thought they would on this CD slowing down then picking up again, almost new age, almost classic, but always finding it's way back to the progressive base. No4 in particular takes a very piano based classical feel, other's tracks are far more progressive. A wide range scope of music and musical influence's have been used on this CD to create the final sound. For me I found the CD to be a little week, not enough upfront sound especially on the guitars, I prefer to listen to a more basic rock sound. I'm sure though if you find the lighter end of the progressive rock spectrum then this should fit right for you to listen too. (CB)
DANIEL PRENDIVILLE-'Tantrum Ego' ( Ire Reincheque Recordings 99)
I hate to do this sometimes, when someone has obviously sweated and worked their guts out to produce an album that is obviously their 'baby'. I'm sorry but I don't really like this. I've tried to be objective about it but it simply doesn't light the blue touch paper. It reminds me of a solo effort by a member of an early 80's prog band, you know Mullets, Pixie boots and the guitarist with the sleeves of his brown distressed look leather jacket rolled up. Sorry to be so negative about this release but there you go. At the end of the day it's down to personal taste I suppose. The only redeeming feature for me is a slight resemblance to the vocals and choruses of Talking Heads. Anyway try not to be put of, visit the site and make up your own minds.(CB)
Lightspeed - Waves (Can demo CD'r 99)
Lightspeed are a 5 piece Canadian Progressive rock band, with a large debt to the US a.o.r scene. It States on the label that this is DEMO VERSION UNMASTERED, now I shall have to wait and see what changes the band make to this, but I found it to be flawless. Major production techniques are used, classic playing with excellent vocals. 11 tracks running in at just under the hour mark has something for everyone who is into the "prog" end of the market. The soundscape is full of bands like Rush, Yes, Kansas, Styx, and much more. The opener Peak Fires is full of energy, guitar jumping in and around you, drums pan out of the speakers, and a great chorus hook. Second track Things to come, is more a.o.r in direction, Waves of emotion, a direct rock cut. With so much going on, you're never sure which direction is to be taken next; Young at heart slows things down, final track Fly Away, blends a.o.r and progressive rock to get the balance right. I'm not sure when this will get a full release, but a visit to Lightspeed's web site, which is full of pictures, sound sample and information will keep you informed. I also received two previous CD's in their package, So exactly where are we? (92), and On second thought (95), both are more rock orientated than Waves.
PEGASI 51 - Space Riot ( US Morbid Bros. records 99)
High-energy pounding rock very much reminding me of the sonic attack of perennial British festival circuit stalwarts Hawkwind. Atmospheric keyboards burble away in the background underpinning suitably cosmic lyrics about 'Electric Clouds' and the like. In some parts there is even a little reminder of the late, great Wall of Voodoo's take on music. (10 points to any one who remembers them!) It's not all love and light in the strange world of Pegasi 51 however, there is definitely a more contemporary vibe to a lot of the songs. There is even (gulp) a Joy Division cover version and, before all you dour young men in long coats start screaming sacrilege, it is actually handled in a very competent manner. Tight, competent and enjoyable is my verdict on this band that hails from Knoxville, Tennessee. (CB)
Murder she wrote - S/T (Ger demo CDr 00)
German band that have a different look at the world of progressive metal. Opening track The way things change suddenly, starts with Islamic sounding chanting before going into power rock. The following 7 tracks all take different looks at the way we live out lives, Factory of Dreams starts slowly and then builds over guitar and bass. This is one of those releases that is going to keep you coming back to it, I was unsure why at first, but now as I'm on my forth listen, and still finding more each each time, it becomes more clear. The vocals are strong and give a panoramic view, the use of all the instruments and some great samples take you further into the songs with each listen. Palmyra, A room with no view, and The first day:dying all have had me lost inside them for hours.
I had discovered Kinch from the Meteor City message board and let me tell ya, I wasn't disappointed. Zakk sent me a C.D and a bio in the mail, which arrived pretty fast too. Kinch is a 3-piece stoner/desert outfit from Munich Germany. Their style falls under the Kyuss/ Fu Manchu style of stoner rock. This is Kinch's second release; their first was a demo tape. This C.D contained six blistering groovy, fuzz tunes and the lead singer reminded me of Pete Stahl of Goatsnake. The majority of the songs on this C.D weren't real fast or too slow, they were just right, you could really feel the groove. This C.D was filled with excellent riffs, hooks, and solo's, Kinch is very professional, they sound very experienced, they recreated the 70's sound and brought it forward to the 90's. The C.D will remain in my stereo for quite a while; I really enjoyed this release you will too. This band was exceptional and I’d watch out for them, I have a feeling they're gonna be going somewhere pretty fast. The track listing is as follows: Man and Buduc, N.L.O, El Hombre Rojo, Safit, Burn this Barn, and Cadu. The approximate running time is about 20 minutes, which left me wanting to hear more. This is an excellent release, me, I'd check these guys out; ya won't be disappointed, I wasn't!......... (Kevin Payne)
Las Malas Amistades - La Musica de la Malas amistades (Colombian private 00)
Well this is the first release that we have had from Colombia so first I must say 'Hola!' to any South American readers that we have. An interesting release this, consisting of 28 tracks made by a group of people that are self admitted non-musicians. The group were apparently got together on a purely casual basis just for the pleasure of playing around with a bunch of instruments and recording the results. The output of these sessions is what makes up the disc. For the most part the songs and tunes reveal a naïve charm, all factory set drum machines and one-finger melody lines. It is; however, in this primitivism that the band succeeds, the accompanying press release refers to it as pure music and on listening to it I think you can understand the term. This is all done without 'front' or ostentation with regard for the overall feel of the tracks not the musical polish. From my incredibly poor translation of the Spanish sleeve notes I think that some of the tracks were recorded on a 4-track porta-studio and others on a domestic stereo (I think). Even if you don't like the music, which incidentally I do, you must like the attitude that these people give out. I would suggest that this go on your 'well worth checking out' list but hurry up because it's a limited release of 1000 and I've got No. 249! (CB)
No Brass - The Crowning of the sun (US private 00)
This is very much one of those projects that has been worth the wait. First conceived and started way back in 1995, this now finally sees the light of day. This project is really Mike Kovacs backed by various musicians along the way. 55 minutes of rock powered guitar led songs . If you get off on guitars then I would suggest a look at this, there's all you are looking for, song that are well constructed and power along, not giving the listen a lot of time to let up before the next assault of guitar heaven. This is sure to make an impact on most rock head's out there, Roll On, The Death of a drone ( that reaches in heavy metal land), and A world within are the better tracks on the CD for me. This CD has been 5 years in the making, and I would guess a life time in the planning, if you are into rock&roll guitars, the a look over No Brass's own web site should tel you all you need to know.
Moth Wranglers - "Turnabout/New Mission Terrace No.47" (US motherwest 00)
Ah..vinyl, the smell of it, the feel of it, the taste of it. Well as you might of guessed I've got a 7" to review, something I always relish because it demonstrates that there is still a market for non-digital format music. The Moth Wranglers present a nicely packaged 7" showing off many of their skills. Country tinged acoustic instruments underlie a feel that reminds me of the quirky pop of early James singles transported to the American continent. The B-side is a completely different pot of drones, delicate swathes of sound with tiny guitar ornamentation, build and loop in a Frippesque manner. This builds and builds until it breaks down into what can only be described as a C & W Oompah band with oddly distorted vocals ! All coming out of just one speaker! A very intriguing single which definitely has its moments. File under 'can I just go away and think about this' (CB)
The New York Room - The Colour of Midnight (US str 00)
First of a batch of three outpourings from top Californian Goth label 'St. Thomas Records'-The new York Room plough a familiar furrow of ethereal female vocals and sombre piano. Darkly appealing, several of the tracks bring to mind a progressive version of the Cocteau Twins. Their version of the Rolling Stones standard 'Paint it Black' reveals folk roots and mysterious undercurrents merely hinted at in the original. Fans of 'back masking' will be thrilled to hear what may be Vincent Price intoning a gothic tome at the start of track 8. Devotees of finely produced female vocals will be well advised to pick this disc up. Effective listening for those of you with a dark disposition.(CB)