A DESCENT INTO THE UNKNOWN

'A Descent into the Unknown' is the debut release of multi-instrumentalist Daniel Cross, a newcomer into the world of progressive rock. This mini-album or EP is comprised of one lengthy thirty-minute piece made up of several sections and a shorter closing track, making up for some thirty-three minutes of music in total. This is an all-instrumental project, and the focus of this debut release is obviously the gargantuan title track - we have a keyboard-driven composition that is accompanied by a relatively standard rhythm section. The use of different patches, synth effects and keyboard sounds comprises the essence of the music on 'A Descent into the Unknown', which might remind many people of the output of Rick Wakeman or Patrick Moraz, as the music on this EP is undoubtedly rooted in the classic prog tradition. And while it goes through different sections and introduces fascinating, lively melodies and a somewhat magical atmosphere, almost medieval at times, this large epic remains mostly monotonous and lacks a bit of the intricacy and suspense that you might hear in band records. Despite this aspect of the music, we have a delightful listen, quite crafty and ingenious, that offers a multi-instrumentalist's rendition of the classic instrumental prog epic.