Record Reviews

FAMILY ~ A SONG FOR ME / ANYWAY... BGO 854 (Barcode: 5017261208545) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009 3rd and 4th albums by the fantastic British Prog band FamilyFind albums by this artist, one of the most imaginative, sophisticated and excellent bands of the 1970s. Formed by vocalist Roger ChapmanFind albums by this artist and guitarist John WhitneyFind albums by this artist, who also were responsible for writing the band´s exceptional material, the original lineup included also saxophonist Jim KingFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick GrechFind albums by this artist and drummer Rob TownsendFind albums by this artist. This lineup recorded two exceptional albums: "Music In A Doll`s HouseFind albums with this title" and "Family EntertainmentFind albums with this title", which are considered as Prog masterpieces. Following the departure of Grech (to form Blind FaithFind albums by this artist) and later King, they were replaced by bassist John WeiderFind albums by this artist and multi-instrumentalist Poli PalmerFind albums by this artist respectively. Palmer´s contributions on vibraphone, flute and piano expanded the band´s sound considerably, adding subtle Jazzy nuances to the already intricate musical amalgam the band produced. Chapman´s unique vocal qualities, which had absolutely no rivalry on the British scene, combined with the superb instrumental backing turned Family into an absolute marvel, which has stayed unchallenged for the last 40 years. The new lineup recorded the two albums included here in rapid succession, using 4 live tracks on the second album to speed up the recording process, which ultimately turned out to be the only live material ever formally released by the band. The quality of the songwriting, as well as the extended instrumental work, is staggering and completely uncompromised by the passage of time. This is the Holy Grail of early Prog, regardless the fact that most Prog historians and music critics often fail to recognize the band´s contribution to the genre. This remastered edition spiced up with many bonus tracks is a must to any collector of Prog albums, as no collection can be complete without them. Absolutely essential!

CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

STEVE HACKETT ~ RAILS INSIDEOUT 339 (Barcode: 5052205055281) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011 This album by veteran guitarist / composer Steve HackettFind albums by this artist documents the concerts performed by him and his band during the 2010 European tour. As usual the performances include a mixture of Hackett´s material from his solo material as well as classic GenesisFind albums by this artist sagas. The overall level of performances is extremely high, the band operates like a well oiled perfectly tuned machine and Hackett still has his chops together, like only very few musicians of his generation can display today. Although there are basically no revelations, surprises or groundbreaking steps taken here, everything is done perfectly, with good taste and a lot of passion and incredible talent. The band includes reedman Rob TownsendFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Roger KingFind albums by this artist, bassist Nick BeggsFind albums by this artist, drummer Gary O´TooleFind albums by this artist and guitarist / vocalist Amanda LehmannFind albums by this artist. Hackett is one of the classic Rock and especially Progressive Rock veterans (the term dinosaurs it truly stupid in reference to veteran musicians) who kept his dignity and full capacity as a musician over four decades after his initial success. None of his Genesis band mates and most ex Prog superstars left the stage quite a while ago and those stubbornly clinging to past glory are simply pathetic or ridiculous, with a very few exceptions. Hackett always expanded his musical horizons, embracing the acoustic guitar as a separate musical entity, in addition to the electric Rock oriented sound he became famous for. His ventures into Classical and contemporary Classical music as well as his versatile Rock outings were always top notch. In retrospect he created over the years an impressive body of work, which is in many areas unparalleled by no other musician of his generation. This is timeless music, which would have sounded great if it was performed in the 1970s and sounds every bit as impressive today. Good music is good music, even if we hear it all before. Classic Rock enthusiasts will definitely have a field day with this album, regardless if they are or not Hackett fans. Those who only now come to be introduced to his majestic music can embrace it wholeheartedly, starting with this album, which is as good entry point as anyone can imagine. Superb stuff!

CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend