LIVE AT NEARFEST

Izz sound is definitly a grower. I had heard their second studio album (2002´s I Move) and I remember not liking it. Too many modern references for my taste (you know, Radiohead, Coldplay and the like...). However, even then I found this american group to be far more adventurous, skillful and, yes, progressive, than those bands. I thought that their live album would be a little more energetic and less slick than their studio counterparts, and I was right. Even if the style here is not what I call my favorite type of progressive music, it is still quite impressive anyway. The obvious King Crimson influence on some parts and the cool jazzy elements were quite a surprise for me. Their live perfomance is spotless and their instrumental precision is amazing.

I was wondering why they were labeled as symphonic rock and not crossover, but listening to this CD with atention you´ll find that they are indeed quite symphonic and the music is far more complex than I initially thought it was. Their elaborated and varied compositions (specially on the CD´s second half) are really excellent and hints even a few Yes-like passages, with very fine keys and several Chris Squire-ish bass runs. I loved the exquisite keyboards timbres, the brilliant guitar passages and the sophisticated vocals (the two girl backing vocals are very good!)

The album was very well recorded and produced. Highlights? Try the 12 minute Late Night Salvation and the cool Where I Belong, but Live at Nearfest has no weak tracks. They are a real tight band.

Conclusion: very interesting and original sounds. If you want to hear something new in the prog field, this album might give you some pleasant moments. RAting: something between 4 and 4.5 stars. A band to watch for!