Record Reviews

ROOTS OF CONSCIOUSNESS ~ ROOTS OF CONSCIOUSNESS SYN-PHONIC 12 ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1989 - 1993 Released: 1994 This is the only album by American Prog group Roots Of ConsciousnessFind albums by this artist, which comprised of guitarist / vocalist Brian NeuwirthFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Bill SchuesslerFind albums by this artist, bassist Mat MillerFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert StallingsFind albums by this artist. Neuwirth composed all but one of the albums ten tracks and most of the lyrics and was the most dominant musician in the group. Several guest musicians also participate on selected tracks. The album is one of those obscure Prog gems that almost nobody knows about but deserves a much wider recognition for being one of the best American Neo-Prog efforts of the early 1990s. It took the group four years to complete this album, as it often happens with self produced efforts, and it is very well made indeed. The music is deeply rooted in the 1970s Prog tradition, but avoids the trap of being derivative or obviously copying any specific sources. It has many of the GenesisFind albums by this artist theatrics, most obvious in Neuwirth´s vocal delivery, but also the complexity of Gentle GiantFind albums by this artist and other characteristic Prog qualities. However the group remains completely unique and these references to past models are more hints that clearly conveyed statements. The music and the performances are rock solid from start to finish, with great vocals, intelligent lyrics and excellent instrumental passages, in short a great Prog album by any standard. It´s a pity they never carried on and recorded more music, but at least they can be proudly remembered by this one. Grab it if you can! Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice Wonderful cover - couldn´t find a sample to listen to on the www before committing to the waiting list - does anyone have a link?

Updated: 21/09/2021Posted:

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