Record Reviews

ANTON ROOLAART ~ THE BALLAD OF GENERAL JUPITER MOONJUNE 136 (Barcode: 692287913625) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2025 Released: 2025 This is the 3rd album by Dutch-American vocalist / multi-instrumentalist / songwriter Anton RoolaartFind albums by this artist, recorded mostly by himself with some help from keyboardist Rave TesarFind albums by this artist (of RenaissanceFind albums by this artist fame), drummer Bob KirbyFind albums by this artist, flautist / saxophonist Wouter SchuelerFind albums by this artist and background vocalists. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original songs (music and lyrics, except one song) by Roolaart and one is by Jon AndersonFind albums by this artist (of YesFind albums by this artist fame). The music is beautifully melodic and the entire concept of the album is deeply rooted in the classic Progressive Symphonic Rock of the early 1970s, sounding as if it was recorded over half a Century ago, which is meant to be a compliment. The vocals and the instrumental work are exceptional and the whole album has a highly sentimental tinge and is a great fun to listen to, especially by elder listeners, who grew up at the time. The only “problem” is, of course, that Progressive Rock is completely stuck, as if the time froze in 1975, and the genre did not move forward an inch since, for good and for bad. As long as representatives of our generation are alive, this music will have its audience, and honestly who cares what will happen next. Overall, this is a beautifully conceived and performed piece of music, with sophisticated melodic explorations and a rich instrumental filling, which should satisfy even the sternest critics. It does not try to innovate, but preserves the Prog spirit proudly, regardless of its relevance. Personally, I had much fun listening to it. Well done indeed!

Updated: 30/04/2026Posted: 30/04/2026

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