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Well, if you ask me to name another good Russian instrumental heavy prog rock band, I will not easily find you an answer. Indeed, the Russian rock scene was not really competitive (until recently). It is spoiled by the commercial, MTV format, music. Moreover, the rock tradition was never strong in Russia. Yes, there are a few nice bands, most of them connected to the label Mals Records: Byelorussian In search for, 7th Ocean and Sunrise Sunset Project from Saint-Petersburg, but all those are actually more nice exclusions than a rule. This all makes me wonder even more at this marvel, Mind Portal. The band was formed in 2009 in the city of Voronezh, in the middle of Russia. They play high quality instrumental rock, something similar to the music of Steve Vai and once in a while, it reminds me of Gordian Knot. It sounds quite heavy, but very smooth, a sign of gifted arrangements. The tunes are strong, even memorable, and playing is just wonderful.

Mind Portal is a new star on the eastern rock sky, and who knows what the guys will be capable of in the future. They are definitely worth of following.