VISIONARY FOOLS

I remember reviewing an album by Cross which was released on Cyclops some time ago, but I know that they had released other albums even then. They have now set up their own label and their latest album is its' first release, but with no biog I can further very little else.

Cross are based around lead singer/guitarist (plus extra keys and mandolin) Hansi Cross, although the others do get some input on some of the songs. This is soaring prog, with large elements of Eighties Genesis and Pendragon, and at some points, it is almost Camel-esque. While there are many intricate passages, the focus is much more on songs with a purpose instead of meandering aimlessly.

While the vocals are important, the main elements are the interplay between the guitar and keyboards along with some very strong, almost tribal, rhythms. An album that I have enjoyed playing immensely.

Feedback #59, July 2000

This is the seventh studio album from CROSS released in 1998.This Swedish band is led and named after Hansi Cross who's name has popped up often over the years in various projects.The keyboards and guitar usually lead the way with those ever-present vocals which are average at best.

"The Riddle" opens with synths before settling with acoustic guitar as vocals, bass and drums help out. Mellow stuff. Guitar after 4 1/2 minutes as the tempo picks up. "White Lies Dark Truth" is more uptempo and brighter. Vocals and some great sounding bass lines after a minute. Synths lead for a minute but they trade off with the guitar the rest of the way. "Deep" is a short atmospheric instrumental.

"In A Questionable Mark" features these pulsating synths with vocals leading early on. Nice bass 1 1/2 minutes in.The guitar is prominant briefly 3 1/2 minutes in. Organ late. "The Earl Of Doncaster" is an instrumental that opens with some chunky bass. Piano and synths follow then guitar 1 1/2 minutes in. "Walls" is mellow with laid back guitar and vocals. "Pain" opens with gusto but it settles back quickly with vocals. Some raw guitar after 1 1/2 minutes. "New Dimensions" is the longest track at over 12 minutes.This one is pretty good as we get changes in mood and tempo with some good guitar and synth work. Organ too in this one. A pulsating rhythm late. Good song.

3 stars but just barely.