CROSSROAD

Very, very good prog band from Kursk. For a first release this album is nothing short of excellence. Which does not mean it is perfect. In fact, most of the time this russian quartet does a fine symphonic prog rock with some beautiful melodies, intricated arrangements and a good, if not exceptional, vocalist. I surely don´t know how soeone labeled them neo prog: they are not! So forget any Rothery like guitar solo and the like. Their music is still hard to categorize since they are still struggling to find their own sound, even if they are in the right direction most of the time.

I don´t really think Apple Pie is so much like Spock´s Beard. I was nver a big fan of this american band and I really like Apple Pie much more. That said I must point out that this CD is not totally smooth, a couple of songs spoil the overall sound. Temptation is too much a funk pastiche that is clearly out of place here, while the gospel Still Got My Faith On You laois any real spirit. If they had left out those two tracks this would be a 5 star rating, since the other tracks are absolutely winners. But don´t worry: both tunes are only a little over 8 minute in total, in an album that has 76 minutes of music.

The overall production is very good and the band members are very skilled. There are some great vocals harmonies here and there that I hope they explore more in the next releases. I´m looking forward to hear more from Apple Pie. Recommended for any prog fan.