SYMPHONIC PROG

Their music evolved through the years from almost neo prog with lots of Marillion, Camel, Genesis influences in their 90s albums to a symphonic band later on, but in each phases their really manage to survive in the scene and release music of a real intrest.

Arsis is a real symphonic prog album of the highest calibre, only 3 pieces here divided in many small ones, the opening has 30 min and is a pure delight. Inventive instrumental sections, lots of keyboards, piano motifs but in combination with the guitar parts the result is an excellent album all the way. Well crafted and composed, intresting orchestrations and lots of changes but done with taste.

All in all a solid album and among the best genre has to offer, all members involved done a great job and Cast once again must be taken in consideration when talking about genre best and longevive bands. Easy 4 stars and recommended.

"14 From Our Past" is a compilation of Genesis that was released in 2007. As its name indicates, it features fourteen songs from the band which aim to be representative of the whole history of Genesis. So, practically all studio albums of the group are represented with one song except their debut and third studio albums "From Genesis To Revelation" and "Nursery Cryme". It has also a song "Happy The Man" that was never put on any official studio album at the time. However, it was recorded and released at the same time of "Nursery Cryme" and so it became the song representative of it. It's also interesting to note that all the songs on "14 From Our Past" were put strictly in the chronological order.

Thus, "14 From Our Past", like its name indicates, is a compilation album with fourteen tracks. The tracks chosen to be part of this compilation album are the following: "The Knife" from "Trespass", "Happy The Man" which is a non-album's track, "Watcher Of The Skies" from "Foxtrot", "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)" from "Selling England By The Pound", "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" from "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway", "Squonk" from "A Trick Of The Tail", "Your Own Special Way" from "Wind And Wuthering", "Follow You, Follow Me" from "...And Then There Were Three...", "Turn It On Again" from "Duke", "Abacab" from "Abacab", "That's All" from "Genesis", "Land Of Confusion" from "Invisible Touch", "Hold On My Heart" from "We Can't Dance" and "Congo" from "Calling All Stations".

"The Knife" is a composition unusually aggressive for the band and pronounced, in a certain way, the path the band would follow up on their next albums. It's the most famous song on "Trespass" and is the heaviest track of Genesis. "Happy The Man" is a song that was never released on any studio album of the band. It was released only as a single, in a few countries, as the A side of it and with "Seven Stones" as the B side. It was later put on several compilation albums, some with slightly different versions. The song was originally recorded in 1972. It was released almost simultaneously with the "Foxtrot" album. It's a good song, but one that wouldn't have fit very well on that album. "Watcher Of The Skies" is one of the most popular and beloved songs by their fans, and one of the most played live by the band. It's a great song that gives a sense of majesty and power. "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)" is a funny song with some characteristics of a pop song. Still, it's a great song. It was the first charting single of the band. "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" is one of the most accessible songs on the entire early Genesis' catalogue. It revolves around piano, synthesizer and Mellotron tunes, with the traditional rock instruments accompanying. It has some great lyrics too. "Squonk" is a very simple song with great choral work. It has a great memorable opening and a remarkable fantastic drumming work of Collins. "Your Own Special Way" is a straight forward pop song with excellent melody. It has very good 12 string guitars, and some superb keyboard arrangements by Banks, plus some autoharp by Hackett. "Follow You, Follow Me" is a song released for a single with the intention to be a hit that achieved the top sales. It's a good pop song that should never have been recorded by Genesis, but recorded by Collins on one of his solo albums. "Turn It On Again" is a good pop rock song, one of their greatest successes and one of their most played live songs. "Invisible Touch" is a typical pure pop song made to be a greatest hit. As a pop song, it's a great song. Still, it has nothing to do with prog. "Abacab" is a very good song that I like very much. I really think that we are in presence of one of the best songs on "Abacab" album. It's a song with a simple structure that progresses in a modern way. "That's All" is a simple song with a catchy tune that remains nice to hear from the beginning to its ending. It's a Collins' song with all the ingredients to be a successful pop song. "Land Of Confusion" became a Genesis' classic song with a catchy rhythm and a beautiful melody, very nice and pleasant to hear. Of course this isn't exactly a progressive song but it's good enough to be remembered. "Hold On My Heart" is a song that never should be part of a Genesis' album. It's a good song, but it really belongs to a Collins' solo work. "Congo" marked the debut of Ray Wilson as the vocalist of Genesis. It's a song with a pop tune with an African style drum beat. It isn't bad, but it sounds too much to a pop song.

Conclusion: "14 From Our Past" is an interesting and strange compilation. We can't say that we are in presence of a bad compilation because almost all their studio albums are represented. The only exceptions are "From Genesis To Revelation" and "Nursery Cryme". About "From Genesis To Revelation" is comprehensive and expected because, in a certain way, it's an outsider album in their discography. But, "Nursery Cryme" is unexpected and less comprehensive. In relation to the choice of the tracks, there was the concern of selecting short tracks. The overall quality of the compilation is good. Half of it is progressive. But of course it has some weak tracks like "Follow You Follow Me", "Hold On My Heart" and "Congo". So, "14 From Our Past" is a good compilation which runs almost their entire career. Still, it serves only those who are beginners with the band or those who aren't familiar with the entire band's musical career.

Prog is my Ferrari. Jem Godfrey (Frost*)

When most people think of Phil Collins they think of "In the Air Tonight," I think of "Apocalypse in 9/8." Genesis has an extensive collection of great albums which makes it difficult to choose a favorite from their catalog. For me, "Foxtrot" represents the band's peak of progression and diversity. While it shares similarities with their preceding album, "Nursery Cryme," its distinguishing features lies in the production quality and the epic track concluding the album (which I'll touch a bit more on later). Each musician can shine with their own moment, showcasing some of their finest work.

The album features Peter Gabriel on vocals, Steve Hackett on guitar, Phil Collins on drums, Tony Banks on keyboards, and Mike Rutherford on bass. The band would record Foxtrot in London's Island Studios in August and September 1972. Initially planning to work with producer John Anthony, disagreements over costs led to a search for a new producer. After failed attempts with numerous producers, they went with co-producer David Hitchcock who produced albums for band's such as Mellow Candle and Caravan at the time. Foxtrot would ultimately receive high praise, with Charisma Records' owner predicting it would define their career. Banks particularly praised the album, believing it contained no weak tracks.

The album opens with "Watcher of the Skies" which borrows its title from John Keats' 1817 poem "On First Looking into Chapman's Homer." This track stands out for its complex musicality, unconventional time signatures, and intriguing lyrics, making it one of the tracks I find myself returning to the most from the band. Notably, it features a stunning mellotron introduction. Interestingly, this mellotron was purchased from King Crimson before the recording of the album. "Time Table" showcases a more delicate side of the band, highlighted by Banks' skillful piano playing. On the other hand, "Get 'em Out by Friday" and "Can-Utility and the Coastliners" delve deeper into a progressive and theatrical direction, showcasing intricate songwriting that exemplifies the best of progressive rock. "Horizons" provides a gentle interlude, allowing Hackett to deliver a beautifully executed acoustic piece which he composed. The album culminates with the monumental "Supper's Ready," comprised of seven distinct sections with recurring motifs. Personally, I regard "Supper's Ready" not only as the band's crowning achievement but also as one of the genre's finest tracks. Banks himself acknowledged the latter parts as "probably our peak."

In essence, "Foxtrot" stands as a testament to Genesis's artistic prowess and musical innovation. It represents the pinnacle of their career, showcasing their ability to seamlessly blend complex instrumentation with thought- provoking lyrical content. Ultimately, this album remains a shining example of the band's surviving legacy in the realm of progressive music. If you are reading this review, I would hope that you've already heard the album, if not, do yourself a favor and listen to it as soon as possible.

Favorite Track: Supper's Ready (22:53)

As this is the first review that I intend to publish out of many, I feel like it wouldn't be right to start with any other album than Close to the Edge. It was among the first albums that introduced me to the world of progressive rock. Initially, it left me perplexed and unsure, but with each subsequent relisten, I found myself unable to resist adoring it and sharing it with people I knew, ultimately receiving many mixed reactions. Despite releasing in 1972, the album remains to be a classic with not just myself, but with many fans within the progressive rock genre. Furthermore, the album has garnered acclaim from music critics across the board and is hailed as one of the finest in the genre.

The album features the contributions from Jon Anderson on vocals, Steve Howe on guitar, Rick Wakeman on keyboards, Chris Squire on bass, and Bill Bruford on drums. This lineup is often acknowledged as their "classic lineup," and rightfully so, as each member is able to bring a unique dynamic to their sound. Each member's influence extends beyond the band and into various projects and solo careers which contributes to each of their enduring legacies. When envisioning the ideal lineup for a supergroup, it's difficult not to include at least one or two members of Yes. Additionally, credit is due to Roger Dean and Eddy Offord for their contributions to the album. Roger Dean's cover artwork, though simpler than his typical style, is complemented by a captivating landscape inside the gatefold. This adds an extra layer of allure to the album while also blending very well with the music. Meanwhile, Eddy Offord's exceptional production work shines through as he draws from his experience with the band's live performances. Offord aimed to capture the energy of their best concerts within the studio recordings.

The album begins with the monumental track "Close to the Edge." Words can hardly express the profound significance this song holds for me; it continues to stand as one of my all-time favorites. The sheer brilliance of musicianship, the intricate composition comparable to a symphony, and the lyrical depth rivaling that of esteemed poets make it a true masterpiece. It embodies the very essence of progressive rock, taking listeners on a journey through various styles, genres, and emotions. Moreover, the following two tracks deserve equal acclaim. Both stand out as some of the band's finest compositions. "And You And I" begins with delicacy, gradually evolving into an impressive crescendo which allows Jon Anderson to showcase his remarkable talent. This song underscores the significance of dynamics in music; the interplay between soft and loud passages is essential for its impact. "Siberian Khatru" is yet another outstanding piece that seamlessly blends various genres into an engaging composition.

Midway through the recording process of this album, Anderson made the decision to walk home from the studio following a difficult session that stretched into the early hours of dawn. Overwhelmed with emotion upon his arrival, he found himself in tears, realizing that he could now proudly declare himself a true musician. This moment led him to fill in the occupation section of his passport, a space previously left blank, with the title of "musician." Following the completion of this album, the band faced a significant change as drummer Bill Bruford departed to join King Crimson. His departure marked the entrance of Alan White, previously known for his work with John Lennon, as the new drummer. "Close to the Edge" stands as an essential cornerstone for those exploring progressive rock and music in general. Its historic significance makes it an essential listening experience.

Favorite Track: Close to the Edge (18:12)

After the show, one of our group responded, 'Peter who . . . ?'

In addition to the recently released 'Wind and Wuthering,' Phil and 'company' were touring 'A Trick of the Tail.' Released in early 1976, this album decidedly answered the question, could Banks, Collins, Hackett, and Rutherford carry on without 'Peter who . . .?' Although not explicitly a 'concept' album, 'A Trick of the Tail' bears affinity to a Twentieth Century phenomenon known as 'magic realism.'

In the world of literature, Gabriel Garcia Marquez' 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' and Gunter Grass', 'The Flounder' are prime examples of this tradition in literary expression in which 'the ordinary becomes extraordinary' and the 'extraordinary becomes ordinary.'

A modicum of investigation on the Internet has led me to the novel, 'The Inheritors' by William Golding, the final chapter of which is the source of inspiration for Tony Banks' song, 'A Trick of the Tail.' In 'The Inheritors,' Golding delves into the lives of a group of Neanderthals from the perspective of these individuals, who live in an 'eternal present' broken only by the passage of the seasons. Golding is concerned with the origins of religion, culture, sacrifice, and war. In this work's final chapter, the focus is on the perspective of the modern humans (homo sapiens sapiens) who coexist with the Neanderthals (homo sapiens neanderthalensis). Both groups treat each other with fear and suspicion.

In the song 'A Trick of the Tail,' Banks has kept the perspective of the curiosity of the one group for the other, but no longer maintains Golding's exploration of the Neanderthal by the modern human, rather presents the reaction of modern humans to the presence of one 'Bored of the life in the/city of gold . . . In search of another/to share his life.' Banks has transferred Golding's Neanderthal to the character of one who possesses 'horns' and a 'tail.'

And so, the album is an invitation to the listener to enter Banks, Collins, Hackett, and Rutherford's world of 'magic realism.' And, throughout, 'A Trick of the Tail' displays some of Genesis most potent instrumental prowess.

In any other work, 'Los Endos' could function as a fanfare, announcing all of the themes to follow. Here, the themes are stated in retrospect. In considering 'Los Endos,' I like to think of the Who's 'Overture' to 'Tommy.'

At this juncture, I'd like to mention that, during the mid-seventies as I became familiar with Genesis' music, I needed repeated listening to appreciate the virtuosity of Steve Hackett. As we enter 'A Trick of the Tail,' through 'Dance on a Volcano,' Hackett's guitar is considerably overt. In 'Entangled,' we encounter 'Freudian slumber empty of sound' replete with mesmerizing guitar and one of Tony Banks' truly towering final synthesizer solos.

Hackett's 'trademark' is his use of the volume peddle. The guitar work in 'Ripples' exemplifies his mastery of this device. To my '1976' ears, many of Hackett's performances initially registered as synthesizers. Simultaneously, Hackett delivers an exemplary 'rhythm guitar' performance in 'Squonk.' And employing the rubric 'less is more' during Bank's keyboard solo in 'Robbery, Assault, and Battery,' Hackett sustains a single note in an arc that transcends the proceedings.

On an individual level, I must state that 'A Trick of the Tail' holds a critical place in my appreciation of Genesis' music. With 'Selling England by the Pound,' 'A Trick of the Tail' ensured my readiness to approach 'Supper's Ready' and 'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.'

I suppose Banks, Collins, Hackett, and Rutherford send an 'acknowledgment' of esteem to 'Peter who' in the ending of 'Los Endos,' when Collins, referring to Rev 19:17 and 'Suppers Ready,' sings 'There's an Angel Standing in the Sun . . . .'

In reference to 'magic realism,' what more authoritative source could there be than the Book of Revelation?

Transatlantic is a progressive rock super band formed in 2000 by Neal Morse of Spock's Beard and Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater. Originally intending to include guitarist Jim Matheos of Fates Warning, Morse and Portnoy decided to include Roine Stolt of Flower Kings when Matheos was unable to participate. The band ended their line up by adding Pete Trewavas of Marillion. Their debut album, "SMPT:e" of 2000 received strong and rave reviews. Their second album, "Bridge Across Forever" of 2001 finds the band affixing the form that prog rock is known for. Their third album "The Whirlwind" of 2009 arise after a break of almost seven years. The fourth album "Kaleidoscope" was released in 2014.

"Kaleidoscope" is available in two formats, a double edition and a special edition, which is mine. The double edition has two CD's. The first CD has the main album with five original tracks. The second CD has eight tracks, which are eight cover songs. The eight cover songs are "And You And I" of Yes, "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" of Electric Light Orchestra, "Conquistador" of Procol Harum, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" of Elton John, "Tin Soldier" of Small Faces, "Sylvia" of Focus, "Indiscipline" of King Crimson and "Nights In White Satin" of The Moody Blues. The special edition, beyond the main album and the bonus disc, contains also a DVD that contains the making of "Kaleidoscope", a promo video clip of the track "Shine" and images behind the scenes. This is probably the version that most fans will desire.

The line up on the album is Roine Stolt (vocals, electric guitars and percussion), Neal Morse (vocals, keyboards and acoustic guitars), Pete Trewavas (vocals and bass) and Mike Portnoy (vocals and drums). The album had also the participation of Daniel Gildenlow (vocals), Rich Mouser (pedal steel guitar) and Chris Carmichael (cello).

If you like progressive rock music, you surely know or at least heard of the super group Transatlantic. As many of we know, the band's formation is a true constellation of progressive stars. All these super musicians met again in 2013 and planned a new studio work, "Kaleidoscope". "Kaleidoscope" is a long album, over an hour, and only five songs, which can chase away the listener who hates long tracks guitar and keyboard solos and long intros. But, Transatlantic knows how to reconcile very well in each song heavier and lighter passages, more poppy and accessible with passages of pure rhythmic smashing. Regardless of the taste of each one, they are all very well elaborated tracks that bring together everything that this band has already shown in previous albums, what really is the progressive rock primer is all about.

About the five tracks, "Into The Blue" is the first epic. It's the typical opening song for a Transatlantic's album. With 25 minutes, it's a complete journey divided into five parts, "Overture", "The Dreamer And The Healer", "A New Beginning", "Written In Your Heart" and "The Dreamer And The Healer (reprise)", obeying to a very common logic in the classical music and reused by progressive rock. Each of these parts contains its own riffs, solos, choruses and vocal melodies, making of "Into The Blue" a set of tracks united by the same narrative idea and the melodic theme. "Shine" is a lovely heartfelt number, a ballad with a very calm and a nice engaging groove. All four members of Transatlantic have their opportunity to sing. The whole band participates, giving vigour to the song. "Black As The Sky" is a vigorous song, one of the best on the album. While the keyboards and guitar are the main instruments on the song, there's a great interplay between bass and drums throughout the entire track. "Beyond The Sun" is the least emblematic track on the album and one of the weakest in Transatlantic's discography. It serves as an interlude between the previous and the next track. It's neither a thrilling song as the previous one, nor as beautiful as "Shine". "Kaleidoscope" is the second epic. It's almost 32 minutes divided into seven parts "Overture", "Ride The Lightning", "Black Gold", "Walking The Road", "Desolation Days", "Lemon Looking Glass" and "Ride The Lightning (reprise)". It's exciting, beautiful, well made and well produced. It takes advantage of the skill of all musicians. It delivers very accessible sessions to the audience for any listener to be able to connect with its verses, choruses and rhythms. But, like every great epic progressive track, there are many sophisticated harmony passages and different time signatures. This is a true progressive epic piece in all its aspects.

Conclusion: Once again, some will say that Transatlantic doesn't propose anything new and is content to reproduce what they have already done in the past. It's true it has the same formula you've heard before and that offers very little in the way of experimentation or newness. But, it's done just as well as ever. Due to its technical quality and its above-average production, "Kaleidoscope" remains a fascinating album. Every element you expect is there fully. In the end, this is music adventurous, intricate, and fun that deserves acclaim, regardless of how identifiable it sounds. The fact that these great musicians can reunite compose and perform so well, it's reason enough to celebrate. The quartet still stands as a dominant force in its field. Let's hope they keep it going for years and years to come. So, fans will love it.

Prog is my Ferrari. Jem Godfrey (Frost*)

"Forever Blowing Bubbles" opens with "Chanson", which is a track featuring vocals, which is a first for Clearlight, as their debut album was fully instrumental. "Forever Blowing Bubbles" is also predominantly an instrumental release, but there are in addition to "Chanson" a few other tracks featuring vocals. While the debut album featured only two 20 minutes long compositions, "Forever Blowing Bubbles" features seven more "regular" length tracks (2 to 8 minutes long). The overall music style is similar, although the shorter song lengths make these tracks a bit more concise and also more easily accessible. Psychedelic rock, symphonic progressive rock, meditative new-age atmospheres, and louder more energetic jazz/rock influenced sections. That´s what you get on "Forever Blowing Bubbles".

The album features a detailed, organic, and overall great sounding production, where all instruments and the sparse vocals are audible in the mix. Upon conclusion "Forever Blowing Bubbles" is a pretty eclectic progressive rock album for fans of ethereal atmospheres but also jazz/rock energy, and psychedelic excursions. A 3 star (60%) rating is warranted.