Jesterhoax1

 "Sliver Of a Sun is thus a prog album characterized by highs and lows, which doesn’t exceed either positively or negatively."

 "Spock’s Beard, Echolyn, and Discipline are on another planet."

IZZ's 1988 debut 'Sliver of a Sun' mixes influences from prog greats like King Crimson and Gentle Giant with American FM rock and Beatles-style vocals. The album shows promise with a strong mini-suite 'Assurance' but suffers from inconsistent moments like harsh guitar tones and underwhelming songs. While some tracks shine with jazzy and melodic elements, the album overall stays solid without reaching brilliance. It falls short compared to peers like Spock's Beard or Echolyn. Discover IZZ's prog debut—explore 'Sliver of a Sun' and decide if it resonates with your prog tastes!

 This 'Biogenesis Project' is an album where technique reigns supreme, trying to compensate for the shortcomings at the compositional level.

 I must say that the album washed over me, leaving me quite indifferent.

The review criticizes Ars Nova's 'Biogenesis' album for its overly technical and pompous style that lacks fresh compositional ideas. Despite featuring notable guest musicians and ambitious sci-fi themes, the album fails to engage or excite. The artwork is described as provocative and excessive. Overall, it is deemed a tedious listen, superior technically but weak creatively. Discover the technical mastery and controversial style of Ars Nova's Biogenesis—listen and decide if it's your kind of prog rock.

 If Ánglagård had been born in the hot island of Cuba instead of cold Sweden, this is what kind of music they might have produced.

 The vocal performances are the only Achilles’ heel, lacking the 'golden voice' needed to fully match the intricate melodies.

Naranja Mecánica’s album stands out as a complex and high-level Cuban progressive rock record. While it shares similarities with Swedish prog legends Ánglagård, it features a warmer, lighter atmosphere and distinct instrumentation. The main flaw lies in the vocal performances, which do not match the musical sophistication. Despite this, the album is highly recommended for fans of progressive rock beyond traditional scenes. Dive into this vibrant Cuban progressive rock album and experience a unique fusion of complexity and warmth today!

 The voices, characterized by good timbres and the use of the Hungarian language, create a particular atmosphere that provides the whole with a certain charm.

 If you are passionate about these sounds and want to add more flavor by seasoning them with some exotic spices, you can give You And I a chance.

You and I's third album 'Exit' embraces new progressive rock with melodious Hungarian vocals and Eastern cultural inspirations. While not groundbreaking, it creates a charming and well-crafted atmosphere. Fans of the genre seeking exotic flavors will find it enjoyable, though those craving originality might look elsewhere within the Hungarian prog scene. The album balances lengthy tracks with short interludes, maintaining interest throughout. Explore 'Exit' by You and I to experience melodic Hungarian prog rock enriched with Eastern mystique and engaging soundscapes.

 "The Cast show that they know how to play quite well and compose good progressive tracks on par with groups from countries with much more entrenched traditions in the genre."

 "The album, although well above average, will not go down in the history of progressive music."

Cast’s 1994 debut, 'Landing in a Serious Mind,' showcases a Mexican progressive rock band influenced by ’70s classic prog like Genesis. The album offers pleasant compositions and melodic highlights but suffers from imperfect recording and a somewhat indistinct personality. Songs like 'Just Another Way' and 'Chris Col' stand out, giving energy and melancholy amidst a generally similar set of tracks. While above average, the album doesn’t reach classic prog status but hints at the band’s potential with more maturity. Listen to Cast’s 'Landing in a Serious Mind' and explore a unique take on classic progressive rock from Mexico.

 This band can rightly be considered a sort of clone of Anglagard, even though their geographical origin inevitably brings some differences.

 An excellent symphonic progressive album that won’t disappoint admirers of such sounds and will whet the appetite of many Anglagard fans.

Deadwood Forest’s debut album Mellodramatic offers a fresh take on symphonic progressive rock heavily inspired by the Swedish band Anglagard. Produced by Anglagard's drummer Mattias Olsson, it blends cold, complex instrumental moods with sunnier, American-style vocals. The album balances delicate acoustic moments with energetic, intricate passages. Fans of atmospheric and layered prog will find much to enjoy here. Explore Deadwood Forest's Mellodramatic and experience a unique blend of Scandinavian symphonic prog with American flair today!

 "The three Japanese women indeed possess much instrumental technique and are content with that, mostly stepping on the virtuosity pedal."

 "It’s practically impossible to find one of those melodies that imprint themselves in the mind to linger there."

Ars Nova's 1994 album Transi showcases a powerful trio inspired by Keith Emerson and 70s Italian prog. The musicianship is strong, especially on keyboards, but the album lacks memorable melodies. While energetic and technically impressive, the compositions fall short compared to peers like Par Lindh. Fans of virtuosic prog might appreciate the skill, though emotional impact is limited. Discover Ars Nova's Transi—experience virtuosic prog rock with a dark, energetic twist today!

 The music produced by Ashtar is indeed a curious mix of prog, folk, Irish music... prog metal, and a pinch of death metal.

 It’s up to them to try to channel everything into something more homogeneous and balanced.

Ashtar's Rock Symphony offers an original but disorienting blend of progressive rock, folk, Irish music, and metal elements. Despite technical skill and professionalism, the album lacks cohesion and emotional impact. The band shows promise but needs to refine their sound for a more balanced result. The review rates the album as sufficient and anticipates a stronger follow-up. Discover Ashtar’s unique fusion of prog, folk, and metal in Rock Symphony—listen and judge the bold blend for yourself!

 These Artsruni... will surely make the 'purists' of progressive raise an eyebrow.

 The combination of acoustic guitars and flute cannot but bring to mind Jethro Tull or Camel, even if the resemblance is never very evident.

Artsruni's album 'Cruzaid' defies progressive rock norms with its unique Armenian influence and impressive instrumental performances. The album features a blend of metal-prog and folk elements highlighted by excellent guitar and flute work. It challenges traditional prog purists with its originality and high compositional quality. The rhythm section and melodic complexity add to its standout character. 'Cruzaid' remains one of the best prog releases of 2002. Explore Artsruni's 'Cruzaid' and experience Armenian prog rock like never before!

 The compositions become even more solid and balanced, reflecting the band's greater maturity.

 'The Dogfather Has Entered The Lift' is an intriguing instrumental rich in South American influences and jazz fusion echoes.

Circles End's 'Hang On To That Kite' showcases a matured and solid progressive rock sound building on their debut album. The nine tracks blend crimson influences with varied styles, including a distinct jazz fusion instrumental closing. The album is praised for its balance and artistic growth, with specific nods to vocal similarities to Anekdoten and eclectic musical moments. Overall, it confirms the band's promising trajectory. Explore Circles End's evolved sound and immerse yourself in the unique progressive journey of 'Hang On To That Kite' today!