Record Reviews

CROSS ~ WAKE UP CALL PROGRESS 048 (Barcode: 7320470152096) ~ SWEDEN ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012 This is the tenth album by the veteran Swedish Prog band CrossFind albums by this artist, led by multi-instrumentalist / vocalist / composer Hansi CrossFind albums by this artist and including core members: bassist Lollo AndersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Tomas HjortFind albums by this artist. Several additional guest musicians also participate, adding their contributions and enriching the overall sound of the band. The album comprises of six compositions, five of which are new and one (added as a bonus track), written over a decade earlier by Hansi, was originally recorded by the group SpektrumFind albums by this artist and now gets a new treatment by Cross. Hansi composed almost all the music and wrote most of the lyrics, with just some slight cooperation by the other band members. The music is great example of contemporary Symphonic Prog, which amalgamates the legacy of the classic period of the genre with modern sound. Well defined melodic themes, expanded instrumental passages, tempo changes and multilayered soundscapes are all utilized here, with a surprisingly fresh effect, way superior to most contemporary Neo-Prog efforts. With eyes closed and total surrender to the music, this sounds like a lost 1970s album, recently discovered and remastered. Of course we are talking influences here, not an attempt to purposely reproduce anything, other than respect and gratitude to the forefathers of the genre. In my book creating an album, which sounds as if it was recorded in the 1970s is Progress encapsulated. The level of musicianship and professionalism involved with recording this album is quite remarkable. The sound is perfect for this kind of music, avoiding the shrillness of Prog Metal, which seems to dominate most contemporary releases. The mix enables all instruments to be perfectly audible and the vocal parts are kept on the same level as the instruments, which allow them to merge perfectly into a coherent and pleasurable whole. The melodic and harmonic content, although typical of the genre, is interesting enough to keep the listener alert, even on the tracks with epic length (over ten minutes), which again is quite rare nowadays. It is becoming more and more difficult to create any truly worthwhile Prog music, as the genre ages, stubbornly resisting change and absurdly progress itself, more than any other musical genre. Therefore staying within the somewhat outdated boundaries of the genre and still being able to create challenging, intelligent and uplifting music is quite remarkable. Hansi and his cohorts deserve kudos for a job well done indeed. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 21/09/2021Posted:

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