Record Reviews
26 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | PENDRAGON ~ LIVE... AT LAST AND MORE
METAL MIND 0005 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
A live concert recorded for the Polish TV in 1996 during the `Masquerade Overture` tour. Pendragon at their best playing and singing their hearts out in front of an enthusiastic crowd. Material includes the album`s songs and some older favourites. Lots of DVD additional material. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 130 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ LOST TAPES, VOL. 1 – STUDIO & LIVE RECORDINGS 1974-1978
METAL MIND 001 (Barcode: 5907785027046) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 1978 Released: 2005
In 2004 the Polish record label Metal MindFind albums on this label released a magnificent Box Set called "Anthology 1974-2004Find albums with this title", with contained 22 CDs of music by SBBFind albums by this artist - the most important Polish / East European Prog band active behind the Iron Curtain. These epic recordings changed the face of music as we know and influenced generations of musicians across the Soviet Empire and its satellite states, which makes that Box Set a well deserved tribute to the band and a superb document of enormous historical and aesthetic value. People interested to learn more about SBB should simply read the review of that release.
The process of collecting the material for the anthology Box Set did not stop however with the box being released and somehow reanimated itself and kept going with additional previously unreleased material being uncovered continuously. This led to the release of two additional Box Sets, called "Lost TapesFind albums with this title", of which this is the first volume.
The music included here was recorded during the first five years of SBB activity, which is by far the most interesting and dramatic. It covers a plethora of studio, radio and live recordings, all by the original lineup consisting of bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. By far the most interesting recording in this Box Set is the quintet meeting between SBB and the legendary trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Helmut NadolskiFind albums by this artist, in short the lineup that recorded with NiemenFind albums by this artist, this time sans Niemen himself. Another very interesting recording is the album SBB recorded with Polish female vocalist Halina FrackowiakFind albums by this artist, which is the only occasion the group agreed to accompany a vocalist.
These three Box Sets with SBB music contain hours of excellent music and invaluable retrospective of history, but to be completely fair they also raise the question about compilations such these being "the right thing to do". There is a lot of repetition here and not every moment is truly inspired; much of it might have been perhaps best left undiscovered. Of course the band has a wide fan base ready to swallow any new piece of music recorded by SBB, but some moral / ethical questions could be also raised about cynical exploitation and opportunism.
That said it is for the individual fan to decide if he wants to purchase all three Box Sets or not. All three Box Sets are numbered limited editions of one thousand copies.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ ANTHOLOGY 1974-2004
METAL MIND 001 (Barcode: 5907785025936) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 2002 Released: 2004
This stupendous Box Set, released to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the legendary Polish Jazz-Rock / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist, is an attempt to present the entire recorded legacy of the band, as know at the time of the release. Later on two additional Box Sets and other releases unearthed more of their recordings, so this box is by far not a "complete recordings" collection.
The band was formed in 1971 in the southern Polish province of Upper Silesia and consisted of bassist / keyboardist / composer Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. They called themselves Silesian Blues BandFind albums by this artist and started to perform locally. By the end of that year Skrzek was approached by Poland´s leading Rock personality, Czeslaw NiemenFind albums by this artist, to join his new group formed in order to fulfill the international contract Niemen signed with CBSFind albums on this label Europe. Eventually Anthimos and Piotrowski also joined the band and the trio stayed with Niemen for about a year and a half, recording several albums with him, including the two albums released outside Poland: "Strange Is This WorldFind albums with this title" and "Ode To VenusFind albums with this title". By mid-1973 they left Niemen´s group, shorten their name to SBB and the rest is history.
From 1974 on SBB became the leading Polish Rock / Prog / Fusion band, recording a series of revolutionary albums and changing the face of music not only in their native country but in the entire Eastern European world living behind the Iron Curtain. SBB were also well known outside of Eastern Europe and in the span of the thirty years documented by this Box Set performed extensively in Western Europe and the USA as well. There is no doubt that their music influenced entire generation of Eastern European musicians, who had limited access to music made in the West and therefore SBB served for them as a musical role model for years.
This Box Set included twenty two CDs, which can be separated into several sub-groups. First there are the studio albums vs. the live recordings, which are the majority. Then there is the output by the original trio in the years 1974-1980 vs. the later recordings after the group was reactivated in 1991 and played with different drummers (Miroslaw MuzykantFind albums by this artist, Paul WerticoFind albums by this artist).
As far as the music is concerned, in retrospect one must admit that there was not that much change over the years, except perhaps for the fact that the group somewhat lost its steam in due process. Obviously the early recordings are the most groundbreaking, adventurous, inspired and therefore interesting. Both in the studio and live the early recordings are full of improvisation, which often borders with Avant-Garde Rock and exhibits strong Jazz / Fusion influences. The sessions with guest Jazz musicians like Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist and others are among the highlights in this Box Set. In time, and especially after the re-activation, the music turned more Rock oriented, and the added vocals did not help to make it more interesting. All the musicians involved are of course superb instrumentalists and there is plenty of great solos (guitar especially), but the magic is definitely lost.
There is also a problem of the same material being included repeatedly, although in different versions, but still basically the same. In contrast to Jazz, where each performance of the same tune can be completely different from every other, it does not happen here and a sizeable part of the music included here seems redundant to a degree. In retrospect perhaps it would have been wiser to split this box into two separate boxes, one with the early material, which is divine and another with the later stuff, which would be for the die hard fans only.
Overall this box includes some of the most important music made in Eastern Europe during the formative years of Rock history, and as such is invaluable. The size and contents of this limited edition Box Set might appear to be a bit megalomanic, but is lovingly excused by most.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 22 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | LABORATORIUM ~ ANTHOLOGY 1971-1988
METAL MIND 001 (Barcode: 5907785028173) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2006
This Box Set compiles all the albums released by the Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble LaboratoriumFind albums by this artist, which was without a shadow of a doubt one of the best and most important Fusion outfits in Eastern Europe before the fall of the Iron Curtain. Over the years the band managed to release ten albums, an unprecedented achievement at the time, of which seven were studio recordings, two were recorded live and the last one was a compilation of previously unreleased tracks. Two of the studio albums were released on the legendary Polish Jazz Series (Volumes 49 and 58). All the ten albums were remastered for this Box Set release and expanded with a plethora of bonus tracks, which include studio outtakes, radio and live performances and mini-sleeved. The booklet includes a detail history of the band and reflections about the albums by the band´s founder / leader keyboardist / composer Janusz GrzywaczFind albums by this artist.
As all ensembles Laboratorium changed lineups over the years, but enjoyed relatively steady personnel for extended periods of time, which undoubtedly added to their success. Most of their material, which is covered by their second to sixth albums (and the compilation album), was recorded by a steady lineup, which included in addition to the leader also saxophonist / vocalist Marek StryszowskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Pawel ScieranskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Mieczyslaw GorkaFind albums by this artist. On the later albums the lineup includes Grzywacz and Stryszowski (who are the only musicians appearing on all the ten albums) with guitarist Ryszard StylaFind albums by this artist, bassist Krzysztof OlesinskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Andrzej MrowiecFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jan PilchFind albums by this artist. The debut recording, which initially occupied only one side of an LP, features the legendary Polish violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist and is stylistically quite close to Free Jazz in contrast to the Fusion direction adopted later.
The band performed only original music, which of course was a courageous decision, and with a singular exception, all the music enclosed herein was composed by Laboratorium members, mostly by the leader but also by others or co-composed by the band. Over the years Grzywacz emerged as a first rate tune-weaver with an excellent ability to write great melodies and riffs, which make the music accessible, even when it becomes quite complex. The music remains intelligent and ambitious throughout, with a remarkable consistency of high-level quality. But the most important factor of Laboratorium was its ability to constantly evolve and change, which is quite evident to anybody listening to the music in the proper historic order. Grzywacz slowly moved from acoustic to electric piano and then to synthesizers, but never indulged in mindless pyrotechnics which so many of his colleague keyboardists fell victim to during that period of time. Laboratorium managed to avoid that terrible, obnoxious 1980s cheesy synthesizer sound, which is a success in itself.
Although most of the music performed by Laboratorium is instrumental, they used the human voice time and again in an instrumental capacity. These vocalese experiments are all quite interesting and present another layer of the band´s musical range. It seems that Polish Jazz is particularly fond of such experimentation since its early days and it´s definitely interesting to hear how Laboratorium handled them.
There are endless moments of musical joy inside this Box Set; virtuosic performances by the musicians, especially those by Krzysztof Scieranski, who stands easily shoulder to shoulder with such bass heroes as Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist, beautiful melodies, funky grooves, superb guitar and keyboards solos, in short Fusion heaven for all connoisseurs of the genre. I can´t imagine any Fusion fan anywhere on this planet not being melted away by the beauty of this music.
The Box Set is an individually numbered limited edition and if you can put your hands on a copy, don´t you dare to hesitate even for a moment – it´s worth its weight in gold!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARENA ~ CAUGHT IN THE ACT
METAL MIND 0012 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Filmed and recorded in April 2003 in Karkow, Poland this is Arena`s first ever DVD.The bulk of the material includes songs from the Contagion album, but much more is added for good measure. The band is in top form and the film and sound outstanding. A true must for any Arena fan. The bonus material includes interviews, photos and other information. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 130 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ LOST TAPES, VOL. 2 – STUDIO & LIVE RECORDINGS 1971-1979
METAL MIND 002 (Barcode: 5907785029156) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 - 1979 Released: 2006
In 2004 the Polish record label Metal MindFind albums on this label released a magnificent Box Set called "Anthology 1974-2004Find albums with this title", with contained 22 CDs of music by SBBFind albums by this artist - the most important Polish / East European Prog band active behind the Iron Curtain. These epic recordings changed the face of music as we know and influenced generations of musicians across the Soviet Empire and its satellite states, which makes that Box Set a well deserved tribute to the band and a superb document of enormous historical and aesthetic value. People interested to learn more about SBB should simply read the review of that release.
The process of collecting the material for the anthology Box Set did not stop however with the box being released and somehow reanimated itself and kept going with additional previously unreleased material being uncovered continuously. This led to the release of two additional Box Sets, called "Lost TapesFind albums with this title", of which this is the second volume.
The music included here was recorded during the first six years of SBB activity, before they disbanded in early 1980, which is by far the most interesting and dramatic. It covers a plethora of studio, radio and live recordings, all by the original lineup consisting of bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. By far the most interesting recording in this Box Set is the quintet meeting between SBB and the legendary trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Helmut NadolskiFind albums by this artist, in short the lineup that recorded with NiemenFind albums by this artist, this time sans Niemen himself. Another very interesting recording is the meeting with Przybielski, captured on the last CD of this set. The opening CD of this set collects early recordings by SBB members, made before the group was formally founded.
These three Box Sets with SBB music contain hours of excellent music and invaluable retrospective of history, but to be completely fair they also raise the question about compilations such these being "the right thing to do". There is a lot of repetition here and not every moment is truly inspired; much of it might have been perhaps best left undiscovered. Of course the band has a wide fan base ready to swallow any new piece of music recorded by SBB, but some moral / ethical questions could be also raised about cynical exploitation and opportunism.
That said it is for the individual fan to decide if he wants to purchase all three Box Sets or not. All three Box Sets are numbered limited editions of one thousand copies.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | QUIDAM ~ THE FIFTH SEASON – LIVE IN CONCERT
METAL MIND 0056 (Barcode: 5907785027121) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
This DVD by the excellent Polish Prog group QuidamFind albums by this artist was recorded in 2005 during the period when the group was promoting their fifth album "SurrevivalFind albums with this title", their first release after they regrouped following the loss of their spectacular lead singer Emilia DerkowskaFind albums by this artist three years earlier. The new lineup is fronted by the new vocalist Bartosz KossowiczFind albums by this artist, who also became the group´s lyricist (in English, as opposed to the mostly Polish lyrics used by the first incarnation of the group). Additional musicians include keyboardist Zbigniew FlorekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Maciej MellerFind albums by this artist, flautist / percussionist Jacek ZasadaFind albums by this artist, bassist Mariusz ZiolkowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Maciej WroblewskiFind albums by this artist.
The music includes several tracks from their (then) new album "Surrevival" and the rest are retrospective glimpses on the group´s earlier material as well as quotations from their favorite Masters like Genesis and others. As the title tells, the music was recorded live during one concert and the sound quality is absolutely stunning for a live recording, full of body and detail.
Quidam´s re-birth was quite remarkable, as this album clearly shows which after all is not really surprising, as they always were the best Polish Prog ensemble with no competition whatsoever. Of course the loss of Derkowska was a blow, but Kossowicz is a remarkable singer and is capable of holding the focus on his vocals. The decision to switch to English is of course unforgivable, but I respect the group´s decision in that matter. Instrumentally they are simply sublime, with every note just in the right spot, the rhythm section playing perfect time and the music perfectly merging Rock riffs with Prog complex melodies.
Although this DVD does not present anything fundamentally new as far as their repertoire is concerned, it is nevertheless an excellent piece of music, which rarely happens on the Prog scene in Poland or anywhere else for that matter. Quidam fans need no encouragement to grab this immediately. This concert is also available on CD under the same title, which was released as a limited edition item three years after this DVD was released and in a slightly shorter version of the material found here due to the obvious time limitations.
No brainer as far as any Prog fan worldwide is concerned!
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARENA ~ SMOKE & MIRRORS
METAL MIND 0063 (Barcode: 5907785027350) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
Arena are undoubtedly the most consistent among the top Neo-Prog bands and in the last decade the managed to record a remarkable body of work of the highest standard. Their Pepper’s Ghost magnum opus was followed by a European tour and this is where the footage of this splendid DVD was filmed. The main concert was captured at a superb 10th Anniversary concert in Poland (where the band has an outstanding following and fan base) and it includes both older tunes spanning their entire career and tunes from the Pepper’s Ghost album. The bonus material, recorded in Holland at the so called re-union concert (where the band is joined by past members) is more fan oriented and gives some interested insight about the band. There is also the usual plethora of bonus features like photo gallery, Interviews, etc. For the many Arena’s fans this is a must have and also a great introduction to the band for those who are not yet familiar with their output. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 172 minutes.
| | Updated: 21/09/2021Posted: | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PENDRAGON ~ ACOUSTICALLY CHALLENGED
METAL MIND 0085 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded live at the Polish Radio in 2001, this album presents Pendragon `naked` as an acoustic trio (no drums) playing and singing a great set of their songs. This performance really emphasizes their great feel for melody and poetry. Absolutely stunning sound quality, which does them a great service in this case. Heartwarming!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ ABSOLUTELY LIVE `98 (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0332 (Barcode: 5907785026155) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2006
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album documents the band´s live show made by the second lineup of the group – bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Miroslaw MuzykantFind albums by this artist. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ W FILHARMONII: AKT 1 (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0333 (Barcode: 5907785026162) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1998 - 1999 Released: 2005
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album documents the band´s live show by the second lineup of the group: bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Miroslaw MuzykantFind albums by this artist. This is the first of a 2CD set. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ W FILHARMONII: AKT 2 (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0334 (Barcode: 5907785026179) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1998 - 1999 Released: 2005
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album documents the band´s live show by the second lineup of the group: bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Miroslaw MuzykantFind albums by this artist. This is the second of a 2CD set. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ GOODBYE (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0335 (Barcode: 5907785026186) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2000 - 2001 Released: 2005
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album documents the band´s live show by the third lineup of the group: bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul WerticoFind albums by this artist and adds the contents of a rare studio recorded EP as bonus tracks. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ KARLSTAD LIVE (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0336 (Barcode: 5907785026193) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2006
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album documents the band´s live show by the first lineup of the group: bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist from their legendary Swedish tour. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ NASTROJE (LIMITED EDITION)
METAL MIND 0338 (Barcode: 5907785026216) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2006
The legendary Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist needs little introduction to the avid Prog / Fusion fans the world over. Now in its fifth decade of activity, the group already established a unique position on the music scene, which can be rivaled only but a chosen few. Their prolific studio and live recordings include dozens of albums, each and every one of which is a meaningful musical experience of unrepeated intensity and depth and a display of dazzling virtuosity. This album presents the band´s new studio album made by the third lineup of the group – bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul WerticoFind albums by this artist. Great stuff!
Side Note: Limited Edition of 1,000 copies only.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | QUIDAM ~ THE FIFTH SEASON – LIVE IN CONCERT
METAL MIND 0395 (Barcode: 5907785034839) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2009
This is the eighth album by the excellent Polish Prog group QuidamFind albums by this artist, although it was recorded back in 2005 during the period when the group was promoting their fifth album "SurrevivalFind albums with this title", their first release after they regrouped following the loss of their spectacular lead singer Emilia DerkowskaFind albums by this artist three years earlier. The new lineup is fronted by the new vocalist Bartosz KossowiczFind albums by this artist, who also became the group´s lyricist (in English, as opposed to the mostly Polish lyrics used by the first incarnation of the group). Additional musicians include keyboardist Zbigniew FlorekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Maciej MellerFind albums by this artist, flautist / percussionist Jacek ZasadaFind albums by this artist, bassist Mariusz ZiolkowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Maciej WroblewskiFind albums by this artist.
The music includes several tracks from their (then) new album "Surrevival" and the rest are retrospective glimpses on the group´s earlier material as well as quotations from their favorite Masters like GenesisFind albums by this artist and others. As the title tells, the music was recorded live during one concert and the sound quality is absolutely stunning for a live recording, full of body and detail.
Quidam´s re-birth was quite remarkable, as this album clearly shows which after all is not really surprising, as they always were the best Polish Prog ensemble with no competition whatsoever. Of course the loss of Derkowska was a blow, but Kossowicz is a remarkable singer and is capable of holding the focus on his vocals. The decision to switch to English is of course unforgivable, but I respect the group´s decision in that matter. Instrumentally they are simply sublime, with every note just in the right spot, the rhythm section playing perfect time and the music perfectly merging Rock riffs with Prog complex melodies.
Although this album does not present anything fundamentally new as far as their repertoire is concerned, it is nevertheless an excellent piece of music, which rarely happens on the Prog scene in Poland or anywhere else for that matter. Quidam fans need no encouragement to grab this immediately, especially in view of the fact that this is a limited edition of 1,000 copies only. This concert is also available on DVD under the same title and includes some additional material not found here due to the obvious time limitations.
No brainer as far as any Prog fan worldwide is concerned!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ CHAMELEON
METAL MIND 0401 (Barcode: 5907785027404) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2006
This album´s title is perhaps the most concise and precise description of its contents. With the 1970s behind him Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist takes a sharp turn off the path he followed previously as the leader of the local Free Jazz / Avant-Garde scene and as other musicians before him (or like a chameleon) entered the world of Jazz-Rock Fusion. The album was recorded in Athens in 1982 and reminded unreleased until 1989 (by that time Stanko was already moving to the next phase of his career), when it was finally released by a small independent Greek label. But chronologically this is the first recording of Stanko´s 1980s "new" style, preceding "C.O.C.X.Find albums with this title". The setting is a trio with guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist (of SBBFind albums by this artist fame), who also plays bass, drums and percussion and young keyboardist Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist, who uses the electronic devices to create beautiful sound vistas. The music is (as always with Stanko) absolutely stunning and quite different from his earlier work. Here we can hear the "easier" or happier side of Stanko, with almost cheerful melody lines and relatively simple rhythmic approach. Let´s make no mistake however; this is still Stanko at his best, with his unmistakable personal way of making music, virtuosic blowing and genius musical concept, all this in a slightly more accessible wrap up. Of the eleven tracks on the album seven were composed by Stanko and four are credited to the trio, as much of the music was actually created on the fly in the studio. In retrospect this is definitely one of the most memorable Stanko albums and an absolute must to all his numerous fans. Just grab it!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Stanko does play beautifully on this album, and as a budding completist I don´t actually regret buying the album, but I have to say that the other instrumentation often leaves a lot to be desired, being more Pop (and occasionally TV-Schmaltz) than Jazz-Rock
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOZEF SKRZEK / TOMASZ SZUKALSKI ~ AMBITUS EXTENDED
METAL MIND 0540 (Barcode: 5907785030459) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2008
This is a reissue of the album recorded by the duo that brought together two legendary musicians: founder and leader of SBBFind albums by this artist, bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist and one of the Giants of Polish Jazz, saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, who came to fame as member of ensembles led by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist. Skrzek and Szukalski played together on and off since the mid 1970s but in the tense pre-Martial Law period (1980-1981) the duo recorded this album and several other projects together and performed live quite often. This remastered edition of the album was expanded by six previously unreleased live tracks, recorded shortly before the recording of the original album material.
The music was co-composed by Skrzek and Szukalski and mostly improvised on pre-conceived melodic motifs, and features extensive soloing by Szukalski and wonderful keyboards work by Skrzek. Stylistically it moves between Blues, Fusion, Progressive Rock and Jazz, always beautifully harmonic and deeply moving. Szukalski was the absolute Master of melodic improvisation, like his idol Ben WebsterFind albums by this artist, and had no equals on the Polish scene at that time (or even to this very day). His untimely death was a great loss for Polish / European Jazz.
In spite of its minimalistic scope and approach, the album is full of absolutely thrilling musical ideas and virtuosic performances, and remains to this very day a milestone achievement of Polish Jazz / Fusion / Blues-Rock history. This reissue brings back to life a piece of Polish music history and is of course a must have for Polish music fans / collectors.
| | Updated: 07/05/2018Posted: 07/05/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | OSADA VIDA ~ PARTICLES
METAL MIND 0718 (Barcode: 5907785037847) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2012 - 2013 Released: 2013
This is the fourth album by Polish Prog band Osada VidaFind albums by this artist, recorded with the new quintet lineup, which features the band´s new lead vocalist Marek MajewskiFind albums by this artist. The other band members are guitarist Bartek BereskaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Rafal PaluszekFind albums by this artist, bassist Lukasz LisiakFind albums by this artist and drummer Adam PodzimskiFind albums by this artist. Although the group exists since 1997 and recorded three early "demo" albums, their exposure really started in 2007 with the release of their first formal release and the international echo it created, which led to some concert / festival appearances abroad. The album includes nine original songs, which the music credited collectively to the group. Seven of the songs feature lyrics written by the vocalist and the remaining two by the guitarists. All the lyrics are in English. As a bonus track the band presents their version of MetallicaFind albums by this artist´s "Master Of Puppets".
Osada Vida is one of many Polish bands creating music, which borders with Prog, but in fact is more contemporary Rock / Alternate Rock and has very little to do with Prog per se. Inspired by the successful Polish Prog bands like Quidam or Riverside, they try to recreate the music these bands create with various degrees of success. Presenting this music as Prog related is a mistake, as the music is basically quite simplistic, with steady Rock rhythms and limited instrumental passages beyond the obvious guitar solos. There is no innovation, no Progress anywhere in sight and no originality, the basic elements that are part of any true Prog album. The lyrics are pretty uninspired, to put it gently and the vocals remain dull all the way through, being the weakest point of the album. The attempt to use lyrics in English, hoping for a wider international exposure, is pretty ridiculous, a trap that so many Polish bands fall into.
Of course not everything is bad about this album, These guys can play and some of the music is quite nice. The keyboardist deserves most of the credit for the nice bits and pieces popping up occasionally, saving the album from complete boredom. Perhaps the band needs to think a bit less about being liked by their fans and concentrate on the musical values, absent here. Even the sound quality of this album is somewhat muddled. A missed opportunity…
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | APOSTOLIS ANTHIMOS ~ PARALLEL WORLDS
METAL MIND 0786 (Barcode: 5907785039971) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the fifth album by Polish (of Greek origins) guitarist / drummer / composer Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist, mostly familiar as the lead guitarist of the legendary Polish power trio SBBFind albums by this artist, but also active in other music fields, as this album´s title perhaps suggests. On this album Anthimos plays guitar and drums and is accompanied by bassist Robert SzewczugaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Piotr MatusikFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Olaf WegierFind albums by this artist. A couple of vocalists appear as guests on one track each. The album presents fourteen original compositions, presumably all by Anthimos, since nothing is explicitly stated on the album´s artwork.
The music is quite different from what Anthimos is usually associated with, presenting mostly melodic Jazz, some Fusion and World Music, all very delicate and subdued. The focus of this album is fully directed on Anthimos the composer, especially in view of the fact that his guitar playing here is limited, and he plays drums on all tracks instead. The guitar is prominently featured mostly on the title track and sparingly on a few other tracks, which again points out, that the concept was to show a different facet of Anthimos´ Music. His fully blossomed composing skills result in a superb collection of wonderful melodies, all of which are skillfully weaved and harmonically coherent.
The performances are all excellent and with the absence of Anthimos´ guitar, the soloing is mostly the responsibility of Matusik and Wegier, both of whom show exceptional skills and taste. Szewczuga lays exquisite layers of bass statements, which round up the sound of the quartet and Anthimos drives the rhythmic pulsations flawlessly.
Overall this is a wonderful melodic, mostly Jazz album, with excellent compositions and outstanding performances, which should keep every Jazz connoisseur extremely happy. People used to Anthimos´ Rock and Fusion explorations might be surprised to hear this album but if they have any taste and music understanding they should accept this simply as another facet of their idol´s musical personality!
Lakis ευχαριστώ for this great music!
| | Updated: 27/03/2018Posted: 27/03/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT SZEWCZUGA ~ MOONRISE
METAL MIND 0788 (Barcode: 5907785039995) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is the debut album as a leader by young Polish bassist Robert SzewczugaFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with keyboardist Michal RoratFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians are featured on selected tracks. The album presents ten original compositions, presumably all by Szewczuga, although that is not mentioned on the album´s artwork.
The music is all within the Fusion / Funk / Groove framework, based on solid melodies, which serve as vehicles for the lengthy improvisations, mostly by the leader. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sound quality add to the overall effect, creating an album that is a real pleasure to listen to from start to finish.
Szewczuga makes sure that his electric bass playing remains the focal point of this recording, playing with virtuosity and vigor that bring fond memories of Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist´ work. Both Rorat and Dobrowolski stand shoulder to shoulder with the leader and support him exactly as appropriate within this environment, emphasizing the Funk and Groove elements. The track featuring Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist on guitar is a classic Fusion tune and a great example of what can still be achieved in that idiom today. The track featuring the vocalist GhostmanFind albums by this artist is a wonderful reminder of his quality and a longing for more of his recorded work.
Overall this is an excellent album, which is fun to listen to and proudly represents the role of electric bass in contemporary music, which sadly is often overlooked. Szewczuga´s exquisite sensitivity, which is well demonstrated by his work as a sideman, is even more prominent herein.
For electric bassists and fans of the instrument this is an absolute must, an orgy of talent and virtuosity. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 30/03/2018Posted: 30/03/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | APOSTOLIS ANTHIMOS TRIAS ~ COME TOGETHER
METAL MIND 0836 (Barcode: 5907785041288) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is the debut album by the Polish Fusion trio led by guitarist / composer Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist, with bassist Robert SzewczugaFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof DziedzicFind albums by this artist. Although the trio exists since the early 2000s, this is their debut recording. The album presents ten original compositions, nine of which were composed by Anthimos (one with a little help from The BeatlesFind albums by this artist) and one was co-composed by all three members of the trio.
The music is everything one would expect from a contemporary Fusion act, which has experienced and talented members and manages to avoid the usual traps, which most Fusion ensembles are unable to get free off. There are no trivial melodic ditties, which serve as vehicles for senseless guitar doodling, but rather excellent coherent compositions, which are played with great sensitivity and not one needless note to spare.
Anthimos enjoys a revered status on the Polish scene after playing with Czeslaw NiemenFind albums by this artist, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and SBBFind albums by this artist, all legendary figures on the Polish Jazz, Fusion and Prog scenes, but his guitar playing keeps evolving and never sticks to repeating old clichés. I have had as opportunity to hear him play recently live with SBB and it was an exhilarating experience.
Szewczuga is a great bass player, very melodic and imaginative and his pulsations fill the aural space with a worm, highly supportive harmonic layers, which fit like a glove to the guitar leads. Dziedzic in very energetic, but also restrained player, who never tries to dominate the proceedings, but pushes the music firmly forward.
Overall, this is an excellent Fusion album, offering some first class tunes and splendid instrumental work, without sounding like another copy of endless Fusion albums one might have heard in the past. But it is also a great fun to listen to, all the way through. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 21/08/2023Posted: 21/08/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
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