LIVING IN FEAR

Tempest was an English heavy progrock outfit of the mid-seventies, nowadays primarily known for the presence of the then soon to be fusion-icon Allan Holdsworth on the debut-album. This second album has endured some serious criticisms, most of which I myself find uneasy to comprehend.

Tempest is a trio founded by ex-Colosseum (and ex John Mayal & The Bluesbrakers) drummer Jon Hiseman. A very talented musician indeed. Guitarist Ollie Halsall (Mike Patto, Kevin Ayers) is nothing short of amazing in skill and his playing is simply glorious throughout, blending jazz-rock and accurate heavy rock. Halsall also plays various keyboard on the album, adding to the progressive textures of the music. Moreover, Halsall proves to be a very exciting and gifted vocalist! Mark Clark (Colosseum, Uriah Heep) is a great groovy & melodic bass-player.

The songs have rock 'n roll, heavy rock, art-rock and jazz-rock influences. The band has an intense feel and well performed vocals that give the music an extra push. Within the song Tempest manages to integrated progressive elements (rhythms, chords-changes, original harmonies) without loosing that fine rockin' atmosphere. During some extended solo-sections the band freely shows how brilliant it can play, with the guitars of Halsall being especially exciting. Some have criticized the album for not having songs that 'really work', but I really find most of these tracks very catchy and uplifting.

Conclusion. Like most early heavy progressive rock groups Tempest must have been unable to find its audiance, being to progressive for rockers and to straightforward for symphonic prog listeneres. But if you like heavy prog like May Blitz and Captain Beyond this will surely please your ears. Fans of Uriah Heep, Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy (because of the melodic bass) and Colosseum might also want to give this album a try. Five stars for this one, a forgotten gem for sure.

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