PAWN HEARTS

I feel fortunate as after a span of about 10 years without encountering any new classic progressive bands I accidentally stumbled on this site and got to try out VdGG. This is my first encounter with this band and I could not be more enamored with their music. Each of the classic bands Yes, Genesis, ELP, etc... always seemed to have their niche within this particular genre, however one common thread holding these bands together is that each member seemed to play as near an equal role in the music making (i.e. three to five players typically playing at equally high levels and often simultaneously). In 'Pawn Hearts' we encounter a progressive band that is dominated by its VOCALS, and the effect of this Peter Hammill 'lead' outfit is outright magical.

The three main tracks, "Lemmings", "Man-Erg", and "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" are each hauntingly addictive. Even when not listening to this album, the melodies stay within my head like a personal soundtrack as I walk through life. Of the three songs I find "Man-Erg" to be the most accessible, upon which when I heard this the first time through I immediately knew that these guys where going to be something special. The other two tracks also feature a multitude of those moments in music listening that just about make your jaw drop out in awe.

All in all if someone were to ask me to generate a sample of progressive rock this would definitely be included in my references, thus this album earns a well deserved five stars as it is truly an essential listen.