VAST CONDUIT

Here we have the debut release of a new US cross-country recording project featuring keyboardist Bill Jenkins (Enchant, Thought Chamber, Sound Of Contact), probably the most prominent band member. It all initiated as an EP project, the recording of three songs with demo vocals started several years ago. Then covid happened, and in spite of everything, opened up the opportunity and availability to expand it to a full album in the end. Who would have thought that? Now finally eleven tracks are offered by them, the album is brimful of fresh prog material deriving from neo, heavy, and jazz prog fields. Twists and turns en masse, playful instruments all over, excellently corresponding together. The vocals are contributed by Friel, most likely a mysterious alias name. A vocal talent in any case, who came out of the blue more or less regarding the development of this project.

Concerning the particular songs nice piano lines are oftenly making the interlude respectively outro. Or the opener most certainly, just the way it is with my current favourite track Endless Days that also features really enchanting guitar, violin and synthesizer solos. The following jazz drenched Too Busy evolves to a real Jeff Plant bass workshop. Fantastic! The charming 500 Miles on the other hand is getting closer to popular rock music fields. And now the band is checking opportunities for live performances. If the songs will appeal, if the listeners enjoy the music. Yeah, I'm in favour at least, although nearly everything indicates that I unfortunately will miss the opportunity. Anyhow, what a great discovery! If you should like the music of bands such as Enchant, Oblivion Sun, Metaphor, Mystery, then your on the right track here.