SEED

SOPHISTREE are a progressive art-rock band from Hamburg, Germany that was formed in 1994. Starting out as a band with a KING CRIMSON style they later became more melodic and poppy, yet keeping their progressiveness. Their progressive side is shown in their complicated compositions with odd meters and tempo changes. This is their strong debut album from 1998, and it's a pleasant surprise. Their influences are SPOCK'S BEARD, UK, GENTLE GIANT, MARILLION, SAGA and TEARS FOR FEARS. Although the pop influences are very present this is true progressive rock. They are showing a high quality musicianship and the vocals are good too. The songs are long just as you'll expect from a progressive band, yet there's a lot of strong and catchy melodies. The highlights are "The Seed of my Smile", "The Seven Seas" and the epic composition "Big Love, Big Fake" that is split into two sections "i: The Kite" and "ii: Hear the Child Scream". It's also the longest track that clocks in at 14:57. It's a great album from a promising band and I wont be surprised if they are one of the future big names in progressive rock. I'm already looking forward to the new album that will be released in 2000. Until then I just have to put this one into the CD player again. Recommended!