After a long delay...the rest of my 2013 CD reviews at DPRP.net:-
Mike Keneally - You Must Be This Tall
DPRP Review update 54 of 2013
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...If you are either a dyed in the world Zappa-Freak or one of Keneally's growing army of supporters you've probably bought this already. If you're not in those categories then I heartily recommend that you listen to the samples and then investigate this album - and the rest of Mike's extensive catalogue - further as the world would be a much poorer place without Mike Keneally. |
Magenta - The Twenty Seven Club
DPRP Review update 57 of 2013
| ...Each of the songs here are very different and, despite the subject matter, this is a particularly positive album reminiscent in many ways of their early material. The dense and bleak vistas of Metamorphosis have been replaced by an airy and open quality with the positive elements of Chameleon fully integrated into their proggier side. It's an easy listen, and that is not a complaint. I simply mean that the music flows nicely allowing the intricacies to reveal themselves and get under your skin without the need to wrestle with it or beat your head against it. This is a delicious fruity sundae of an album rather than a coconut that needs cracking open. |  |
Roy Harper - Man & Myth
DPRP Review update 60 of 2013
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...I was introduced to Roy Harper in the mid-'80s whilst at university. He played the student's union a number of times, perched on a stool, just the man and his guitar with his audience sat on the floor at his feet listening to the sounds, songs and stories of this very charismatic man (and occasionally offering him a gratefully accepted jazz fag!). I was immediately hooked and have seen him many times over the years, most of the gigs being very memorable in one way or another. He does seem to attract a certain kind of individual - I've never seen anyone arrested during the interval of a theatre gig before - but Roy generally manages to rise above it all. A true artist and passionate about his work he reacts to his environment and can have a difficult relationship with his audience. He has been known to stop playing in order to berate people talking in the bar during a song, but I've also experienced some of the most transcendental moments I've ever had whilst listening to music, completely swept away by the magic of his unique songs, and for this reason I will always have a warm regard for Roy and his music which I return to often.
Co-produced by Harper with Jonathan Wilson and John Fitzgerald, Man & Myth has depth and warmth, every element of the sound clear and pristine, making for a wonderful listening experience. If you are a Harper fan already this album can't be recommended highly enough. If you are new to him then it also serves as a worthy introduction although some of the other albums in his catalogue may be more immediate or appeal more to prog fans (1975's HQ being a good example of the latter, featuring an electric band including Bill Bruford, Chris Spedding and guest appearances from Dave Gilmour and John Paul Jones). |
Derek Trotson - Threads
DPRP Review update 60 of 2013
| ...Threads sensibly keeps its focus and doesn't outstay its welcome, remembering the oft forgotten truth that 40 to 50 minutes is probably just about right. I'm a sucker for a tasty power trio and DT tick all of the boxes, the band bringing lots of new ideas and plenty of energy to the party. I suspect that they'd be a hoot live and one day I'd like to find out.
Keep at it guys, this is great! |
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The Fierce and the Dead - Spooky Action
DPRP Review update 66 of 2013
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...Nicely done chaps, the whole album is very well put together and produced with none of the pieces outstaying their welcome. There is certainly enough variety to keep most listeners happy for a long time and these are all pieces that should make a mark in TFATD's excellent live shows, which you shouldn't miss if given the chance. This album isn't going to be for everyone but it is the sort of kick in the arse that prog often needs. Truly progressive in that they are trying new things and even if you don't like it you can't help but appreciate their efforts. A fine album from a band worthy of your attention. |
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