POLLEN

I've been to Quebec a few times, and I love the robust music scene there, especially some of the fantastic jazz fusion artists. I happened upon this old prog gem during my last visit, and a worthy addition to the prog canon it is. Pollen's self-titled album is a one-off affair with French-Canadian vocals that remind me of PFM or some of the other Rock Progressivo Italiano bands of the 1970's. As an "only album", I was a bit disappointed that it only contained 38 minutes of music. But there is a full album sound to it all, and it holds the symphonic prog lover's interest plenty well. I'll provide the obligatory band similitudes: Genesis and Gentle Giant predominantly, but hints of Nektar and England as well. Add the French vocals, and you get a pretty unique stew. This is keyboard driven prog with a very good guitarist - in fact, there are a few guitar-led instrumentals that really made me sit up and pay attention. (These guys were good!) Great cd cover art; and the newest release has some great info and additional pics of the band too. Good shtuff....