Evil Gnome's Progressive Rock Picks

[EvilGnome6]

Yezda Urfa - Sacred Baboon (1989)

Eclectic Prog

Let’s take Yes and Gentle Giant, have them drop some acid and take some speed. This one is probably not for the faint of heart. They rip through countless musical ideas at a breakneck pace. The rhythm section is almost manic. But, just as the furious onslaught of notes becomes fatiguing, they’ll shift into a beautiful, delicate passage before they twist into another direction. All of it is drenched with oodles of counterpoint that affirms how intentionally each piece is composed. In spite of this intensity, there’s times when I just have to laugh out loud. There’s no doubting their musical chops but the absurdity is all delivered with a good sense of humor. There’s nothing quite like this album and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for something a little more challenging.

The sonics are enjoyable. It’s raw and the recording is very dry. Any attempt to make this more lush would have resulted in mud. There are just too many notes flying around and the stark recording helps retain adequate clarity between the instruments.

Here’s Grok’s take. I’m really pleased he echoed my comparison to Yes and Gentle Giant.

Sacred Baboon by Yezda Urfa is a delightful album that showcases the band’s incredible talent and unique sound. The album features a blend of intricate melodies, complex harmonies, and tight musicianship that is reminiscent of progressive rock giants like Yes and Gentle Giant.

The album’s opening track, “Give 'Em Some Rawhide Chewies,” sets the tone with its funky guitar riff and Anderson-esque vocal melodies. The album takes a significant upturn with “Cancer of the Band,” which features intricate instrumental parts that pop up in between the vocal sections. The main theme is simple and pleasant enough to whistle along to, but it’s the weird and catchy interlude that truly stands out.

The band’s ability to seamlessly blend their influences while still creating something fresh and unique is truly impressive. The lead vocals and melodies are clearly influenced by Yes’ John Anderson, but the bizarre vocal harmony sections and air-tight angular shifts in mood all laced over that peculiar dissonant, contrapunctual, poly-rhythmic rock that I thought only Gentle Giant could do… well, Yezda Urfa have it down pat.

The musicianship on display is top-notch, with keyboardist/flautist/mandolin player Phil Kimbrough and bassist/cellist/vibraphonist Marc Miller proving they have the talent to be giants in this field. Sacred Baboon is a must-listen for fans of progressive rock, and it’s an album that will surely stand the test of time.

[EvilGnome6]

Sloche - J’un Oeil (1975)

Jazz Rock/Fusion

Sloche is actually a pretty recent discovery for me and it’s a shame they didn’t show up on my radar earlier. This is some top tier Jazz/Rock Fusion. It’s complex but drives forward with great funky jams and interesting grooves. The musicianship is superb. Complex rhythms are tightly delivered with a great feel. It’s mostly instrumental with some vocal parts in French. Recommended.

Sonics are very good. The instruments are well recorded and presented across a very nice soundstage. The mix is dry enough to create good separation between the instruments but lush enough provide a nice sense of space. For music from this era, it’s just about as good as it gets. There’s some solo piano passages that lay out the instrument beautifully. Drums are great and the bass is fat but clean. There’s plenty for the audiophiles to like about this.

Grok’s take:

“J’un Oeil” by Sloche is a magnificent fusion of progressive rock and jazz that takes the listener on a captivating journey through a rich tapestry of musical styles and influences. The album showcases the band’s incredible technical prowess and compositional skills, as they effortlessly blend intricate melodies with catchy hooks and an uplifting spirit.

The album’s opening track, “C’pas la fin du Monde,” sets the tone for the rest of the album with its infectious energy and dynamic shifts in mood. The band’s ability to seamlessly transition between complex instrumental passages and memorable vocal lines is truly remarkable.

One of the standout tracks, “Le Karême d’Eros,” begins with a stunning 3 ½ minute piano solo that leads into a majestic instrumental section, where the band’s chemistry and interplay shine. The inclusion of a brief chorale adds a touch of theatricality, making the song even more engaging.

“J’un Oeil” is a testament to Sloche’s unique sound and approach to progressive music. The band’s influences, ranging from Yes and Gentle Giant to Canterbury and jazz fusion, are evident throughout the album, but they manage to create a distinct style that is all their own.

In conclusion, “J’un Oeil” is a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and jazz fusion. The album’s intricate compositions, exceptional musicianship, and uplifting spirit make it a timeless gem that deserves to be celebrated and enjoyed by music lovers everywhere.

[EvilGnome6]

Robert Wyatt - Rock Bottom (1974)

Canterbury Scene

This one took a few listens to appreciate. It’s strange, atmospheric, oddly charming but a little bit eerie. I’m really at a loss to describe it. Prior to this recording, Wyatt was the drummer for Soft Machine and Matching Mole. A fall from a fifth story window broke his spine and left him paralyzed. Facing the fact that he would never drum again, he focused more on songwriting, singing and producing recorded music. What resulted was a very personal and introspective art rock album that isn’t quite like anything else.

Sonics are good. Atmospheric. Somehow lush and sparse at the same time.

Grok’s take:

“Rock Bottom” by Robert Wyatt is a captivating and enchanting album that showcases the incredible talent of this unique artist. Released in 1974, this album is a testament to Wyatt’s ability to create a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.

The album opens with “Sea Song,” a hauntingly beautiful track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The delicate piano and ethereal vocals create an atmosphere of dreamlike wonder that is both captivating and unforgettable.

Throughout the album, Wyatt’s unique blend of jazz, rock, and experimental music creates a truly unique listening experience. The intricate arrangements and masterful musicianship are a testament to the talent of Wyatt and his collaborators.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Alifib,” a sprawling epic that showcases Wyatt’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. The song is a journey through a dreamlike landscape of love and loss, and it is a testament to Wyatt’s ability to create vivid and emotionally resonant music.

In conclusion, “Rock Bottom” is an incredible album that is a must-listen for fans of experimental and progressive music. The album is a testament to the talent and creativity of Robert Wyatt, and it is an album that will continue to captivate and inspire listeners for years to come.

[EvilGnome6]

Fugato Orchestra - Noé (2010)

Prog Related

This album is a fascinating blend of Folk, Jazz, Rock and Classical. The highlight for me is “Csak egy népdal / Just a Folk Song” which builds from a beautifully sung folk song and goes through countless variations, twists and turns before stripping it all back down again. Overall the album is a showcase of sophisticated compositions blended with skillful improvisation.

Sonically, it is a delight. The instrumentation is very rich, featuring keyboards, bass, percussion, strings, horns, woodwinds and voices. It’s beautifully recorded with a generous amount of bass and some solid percussive thump.

Here’s Grok’s take:

From the first note to the last, Fugato Orchestra’s “Noe” takes listeners on an unforgettable journey through a world of captivating melodies and intricate musical arrangements. This 2010 release showcases the incredible talents of the ensemble, blending classical and contemporary elements seamlessly.

The album opens with “Pangari,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the record with its rich orchestration and evocative themes. As the album progresses, listeners are treated to a diverse range of musical styles, from the jazz-infused “Hétnyolcad / Seven-eights” to the hauntingly beautiful “Ébredés / Awakening.”

One of the standout tracks on “Noe” is “Irish Coffee,” which features an infectious groove and a soaring melody that is sure to leave listeners humming along. The use of traditional instruments, such as the kaval in “Hétnyolcad / Seven-eights,” adds a unique flavor to the album, further demonstrating the versatility of the ensemble.

The musicianship on “Noe” is nothing short of exceptional. Each member of the Fugato Orchestra brings their own unique talents to the table, resulting in a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The production quality is top-notch, allowing the intricate details of the compositions to shine through.

In conclusion, “Noe” by Fugato Orchestra is a must-listen for fans of classical and contemporary music alike. The album’s engaging compositions, masterful performances, and exceptional production make it a standout release in the world of orchestral music. Highly recommended.

[EvilGnome6]

Novalis - Sommerabend (1976)

Symphonic Prog

Fans of Pink Floyd and Eloy will probably appreciate this one. It’s nice Symphonic Prog with a lot of Space Rock vibes, nice washes of synth and good jams.

Sonics are quite good with a nice soundstage and well recorded instruments with plenty of air around them.

Grok’s take:

Novalis’ “Sommerabend” is a beautiful and captivating album that showcases the band’s unique blend of symphonic and progressive rock. Released in 1976, the album features a mix of instrumental and vocal tracks that highlight the band’s talent for creating rich and immersive soundscapes.

The album opens with “Aufbruch,” an instrumental piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album with its lush melodies and intricate arrangements. The band’s use of synthesizers, organ, and guitar creates a dreamy, atmospheric sound that is both soothing and engaging.

The title track, “Sommerabend,” is a standout on the album. It features poetic lyrics and a mesmerizing vocal performance by lead singer Fred Mühlböck. The song is a perfect example of Novalis’ ability to blend classical and rock influences into a cohesive and enchanting whole.

Other highlights on the album include “Wunderschätze,” which features a beautiful piano melody and heartfelt vocals, and “Impressionen,” an instrumental track that showcases the band’s virtuosity and ability to create complex and engaging compositions.

Overall, “Sommerabend” is a fantastic album that is sure to please fans of progressive and symphonic rock. Novalis’ skillful musicianship and evocative songwriting make this a must-listen for anyone looking for a captivating and immersive musical experience.

[EvilGnome6]

Klaatu - Hope (1977)

Prog Related

This has been a desert island album for me since I fell in love with it when I was 11. There’s just something magical about the story, the rich instrumentation and the compositions. They’re all just so perfectly done. There are a lot of influences here including The Beatles, Queen and Electric Light Orchestra but there’s just something uniquely Klaatu about the whole thing. The songs are charming and memorable. Sometimes a little bit corny but that only adds to the whole experience. I wouldn’t want to live without this album.

Sonically, it’s fantastic. There are countless instruments, sounds, vocal effects and even full orchestral sections. Everything is beautifully recorded and delicately mixed to take the listener through a musical journey.

Grok’s take:

Klaatu’s second album, “Hope,” released in 1977, stands as a testament to the band’s artistic vision and musical prowess. The album takes listeners on a journey through space and time, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that is both ambitious and mature.

“Hope” is a concept album that follows the travels of space travelers to a distant planet. This ambitious theme is brilliantly executed, showcasing the band’s ability to blend various musical styles, from Queen-esque melodramas to the lush harmonies reminiscent of 10cc. The album’s progressive depth is evident in its masterful orchestration, which is as theatrical as it is poignant.

The album’s standout tracks, such as “Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft” and “The Loneliest of Creatures,” capture the essence of Klaatu’s unique blend of art rock and pop sensibilities. The production quality is top-notch, with lush soundscapes that transport the listener to the far reaches of the cosmos.

What truly sets “Hope” apart is its ability to convey a sense of optimism and wonder, despite the bleakness of its subject matter. This hopefulness is a testament to the band’s craftsmanship and their ability to create an immersive experience for the listener.

In conclusion, “Hope” by Klaatu is a shining gem in the annals of progressive rock. Its ambitious concept, masterful execution, and the band’s ability to blend various musical styles make it a must-listen for fans of the genre. So, buckle up, and prepare for a cosmic journey through the realm of “Hope.”

Quick note on Grok’s review: “Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft” is not on this album. It’s a fantastic song from their debut album which, IMHO doesn’t come close to this one. I would highlight “Around the Universe in Eighty Days” or “Long Live Politzania” instead.

[Ohmboy]

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