A GRANDER VISION

When most people see the name I'm sure they will expect a Yes-type disc being of the same name "Relayer" .. however that is not the case. On "Grander Vision" the band Relayer have a sound of their own which is very nice. I would say there are Prog overtones, but other influences such as Queen, Rush, & Pink Floyd are evident. The 20+ minute title track is very prog and has many peaks & valleys. They can be technical in parts but seem more based out of melody. "The River" is a kind of pop song with a great little bridge/solo part. "Anyone" has some heavier moments countered with another bridge section that takes you off the path in a good way. The 4th and final song is "Wire Mill Scars." It is an interesting song, however the mix is off from the others and could have used a bit more care to even it up. That aside, I really liked the disc. Prog is not a big seller in the USA, so it's nice to see some countrymen contributing to good music. All musicians are skilled and have their moments to shine. The singer has a voice like Freddie Mercury at times and the guitarist can go from Howe to Gilmour in a heartbeat. Some nice Key parts and solid bass/drum combos. A change of pace from the normal prog overkill of Spock's Beard, ect.