GRAMERCY

''Gramercy'' is definitely a good album, but there's always a spot to put my nail on. With their unique ''RENESSAINCE meets KING CRIMSON'' or ''OPUS AVANTRA jams with GRYPHON'' style they could be highly appreciated in Prog-Rock society, and I still wonder why there's so little attention to a FREE ALBUM legally available on Russian ''free!music'' site! Shortcomings of the record are few but biting: first of all, opera-like female vocals. I could possibly bear them, but I failed. Second, epics tend to be boring and directionless at times, showing band's lack of maturity. Fortunately, this is where all shortcomings end and you may easily enjoy this album. And if you like opera vocals and don't mind long jammy pieces, automatically add a star or two to my review! The best thing is that the band got rid of some past members, and prepared a second album "Cherdak" which is to be released this year! Male vocals (personal ''hooray!'' from me) and wonderful medieval atmosphere (a very special one - who else can recreate such mood in contemporary music?) - anyone interested? ;) As for ''Gramercy'' - recommended despite my own prejudices.