LÉGENDES

A late comer to the "classic" prog scene, I have decided to include this French band on this list as it could be construed as one of the early Neo Prog bands due to their sound being so clearly imitative of GENESIS. Leader/keyboardist Thierry Brandet's sound and style is pure TONY BANKS while the bass, acoustic guitars, and drumming are quite reminiscent of the palette of the other Genesis corps (though I also hear elements sounding like BABYLON, ELOY, NEUSCHWANSTEIN, and even NEKTAR--the former three of which I would include in the initial "club" of Neo Proggers). The sound here is wonderful--sure to engage any lovers of TONY BANKS/GENESIS music; where I have issues are with the development choices, length, and ability to keep me engaged.

1. Hecenia (10:44) (17.5/20)

2. Le Passage (12:46) (20.75/25)

3. Le Grimoire (10:00) (17.75/20)

4. La Vieille Femme Et La Chandelle (12:43) (23/25)

B+/4.5 stars; a near-masterpiece of progressive rock music.