NAGYVÁROSI IKONOK

This one shot side project of the Hungarian keyboardist Csaba Vedres (AFTER CRYING) is unfortunately the only output of this short living band. The first thing that hits the listener is the very unusual signature of the title suite, followed by the excellent musicianship and not last the very good melodies. If you want to show to somebody what "Symphonic Prog" means, this album is a good example.

The influence of EMERSON LAKE and PALMER is quite evident, but it's probably a natural thing in the East European countries where people has classical music training, at least in listening, in the schools. Not only AFTER CRYING in Hungary, but also COLLEGIUM MUSICUM in Slovakia and partially also the Czech MODRY EFEKT have a strong relationship with their classical background and in this, I think, consists the link with ELP.

The album has a good continuity and the Hungrian vocals sound very well. I'll likely never know what the meaning is, but this language fits very well with this kind of music.

A very enjoyable album. Even if it has continuity and has a sense listened to as the whole, can also be appreciated by songs. Also the initial suite, which is divided in 4 tracks, can be split. Each part has its characteristics and can be enjoyed also alone.

Respect to the AFTER CRYING's works, this album is more "introspective" and the arrangements are even more on the classical side. A remark goes to the Cello which gives intensity to the darker parts.

Surely an excellent addition which can be ordered on Csaba Vedres website or in the "Periferic Records" catalog