Jesterhoax1

 The jam session with Hocus Pocus reveals to the good Van Leer a great band made up of extremely skilled musicians who, above all, show a sincere devotion in trying to recreate and relive the original spirit of Focus.

 Certainly, we cannot call it a masterpiece, but it is surely an album that holds its own when compared to the group’s classics and will satisfy fans.

Focus 8 arises from an unexpected collaboration between Focus's original flautist Thijs Van Leer and a talented cover band, producing a respectable return to prog rock. The album balances nostalgia with fresh creativity, featuring skilled guitar work and playful flute melodies. While not a masterpiece, it satisfies fans of the classic band and the genre. Its humor and instrumental variety highlight the album’s charm and solid craftsmanship. Listen to Focus 8 and experience a fresh yet classic prog rock journey with Thijs Van Leer and the new lineup!

 Keyholder represents an ideal continuation of Notes From The Past with its Flower Kings-inspired style, beautiful melodies, and excellent recording quality.

 Another beautiful album that I can only warmly recommend, obviously not to those who are unbreakably tied only to the '70s but certainly to those who have appreciated the previous album.

Kaipa's 'Keyholder' continues the band's progressive rock journey under Roine Stolt and Hans Lundin's guidance. The album shows strong influence from The Flower Kings, featuring beautiful melodies, vocal interplay, and complex arrangements. It follows 2002's 'Notes From The Past' and represents a modern iteration of Kaipa's sound, recommended for prog fans familiar with Stolt's wider work. While not aimed at strict '70s purists, it offers high-quality production and engaging compositions. Explore Kaipa's 'Keyholder' and experience a fresh yet classic prog masterpiece influenced by The Flower Kings.

 I must say that something started to intrigue me right from the start, and it was with great pleasure that I realized I had a good record in my hands.

 An excellent album, among the best coming from Brazil in the early 2000s.

The debut album Jumping From Springboards by Brazilian band Eclipse stands out in a crowded progressive rock scene. While the English vocals lack energy, the music draws solid influences from classic prog bands and features interesting vocal arrangements reminiscent of the Pat Metheny Group. The album is considered one of the best Brazilian prog releases of the early 2000s, with contributions from notable keyboardist André Mello of Tempus Fugit. Overall, a worthy listen for progressive rock enthusiasts. Explore Eclipse's Jumping From Springboards and dive into one of Brazil's best progressive rock debuts!

 The album thus represents a good starting point for those who want to embark on the discovery of this band.

 Jadis’ main strength is the guitar of its versatile leader, capable of skillfully transitioning from energetic riffs to sweet arpeggios.

Jadis’ first live album 'As Daylight Fades' offers energetic renditions of their classic early works, highlighting the skillful guitar of leader Gary Chandler. Featuring a lineup change post Martin Orford and John Jowitt, the album focuses on fan favorites more than recent releases. Guest appearances and intricate arrangements add to the appeal, creating an accessible entry point for new listeners. A recommended live collection in the new prog genre. Listen to Jadis’ 'As Daylight Fades' and experience classic new prog live at its finest!

 The keyboards and especially an ever-inspiring flute dominate the entire album, weaving delicate and beautiful melodies.

 The final track, Historia d'Una Gota d'Aigua, can be considered the best due to an unforgettable melody that strikes at the heart.

Gotic's Escenes is a beautiful, instrumental symphonic progressive album from Spain featuring delicate flute and rich keyboards. While the reviewer admits minimal prior knowledge of the Spanish prog scene, they find the music captivating and evocative. The album's seven tracks are cohesive and artistically solid, with the closing suite particularly standing out. It is highly recommended for prog fans seeking new European gems. Dive into Gotic's Escenes and experience a captivating journey through Spanish symphonic prog—listen now and expand your prog collection!

 A great, great female voice that can’t help but remind one of the immense Annie Haslam.

 We have an excellent CD at hand, a sort of 'Bignami' of 30 years of progressive rock, revived through sincere inspiration and admiration.

Magenta's album 'Revolutions' offers a rich homage to 70s progressive rock through soaring melodies, complex suites, and elegant arrangements. Featuring Robert Reed's multi-instrumental talents and Christina's captivating vocals, the album channels influences like Genesis, Yes, and Marillion. Despite some overt references that may invite purist critique, the work stands as a sincere and inspired effort to keep prog magic alive. It's a rewarding listen for fans craving classic prog sounds with fresh energy. Discover Magenta's 'Revolutions' and immerse yourself in a heartfelt journey through classic progressive rock sounds!

 The prog proposed by IZZ is quite catchy and easily accessible with many listener-friendly parts that almost edge into pop.

 The alternation of pop and prog components represents the strength of the album as it makes it extremely varied and suitable for both newcomers and experienced prog fans.

IZZ's second album 'I Move' offers nearly 73 minutes of prog rock combining catchy, accessible melodies with majestic and quirky instrumental sections. The album feels like a near-continuous suite, blending pop-like choruses with symphonic and experimental moments. It appeals both to newcomers and seasoned prog fans, balancing listener-friendly parts with complex musical passages. The review highlights the band's success in merging these styles without alienating diverse audiences. Discover IZZ's 'I Move' to experience a fresh blend of accessible and majestic progressive rock today!

 Echolyn are undoubtedly one of the best bands crowding the diverse American progressive scene.

 From a musical standpoint, it is really above average, so if you don’t own these albums, do not hesitate to make it yours even at the cost of investing a budget above normal.

Echolyn's 'A Little Nonsense' box set compiles their early albums, including remastered and rare tracks. Despite some packaging and fan regard issues, the musical content shines with classic prog rock elements. This collection is highly recommended to new listeners, while longtime fans must weigh its value against duplicates. The set highlights Echolyn's signature blend of American rock and English symphonic prog. Dive into Echolyn’s prog rock legacy with 'A Little Nonsense'—discover the remastered classics and rare treasures now!

 It simply is a completely soulless album, one that you’d forget 10 minutes after finishing listening to it.

 An album as light as a spring breeze, if we want to be poetic, a thoroughly pointless album if we want to be perhaps a bit harsher but certainly more realistic.

Jadis’ album Understand returns key members Orford and Jowitt, raising hopes for a revival of the band's early sound. Despite refined melodies, romantic guitar solos, and excellent production, the album feels soulless and forgettable. It lacks the balance and emotional impact of their debut More Than Meets The Eye, making it a disappointment for all but diehard fans. Discover Jadis' new album Understand—listen now and decide if this prog rock journey speaks to you.

 "The excellent recording quality is immediately striking, which is not something to be taken for granted."

 "This CD is among the best productions that our progressive scene has produced in recent years, especially for a debut album."

Filoritmia's self-produced debut album showcases years of live experience and dedication, delivering complex yet accessible progressive rock rooted in 70s Italian influences. The recording quality stands out, matched by skilled musicianship and compelling Italian lyrics. The album balances technical prowess with melodic appeal, making it a strong release from the Milanese band. Fans can stream the full album on the band's website, inviting listeners to explore without risk. Listen to Filoritmia's full debut album online and experience a fresh take on classic Italian prog rock today!