LIVE 2011

So after literally hundreds of gigs, and nearly as many line-up changes, Keith decided to call it a day. But then in 2006 he reformed the band with new members Paul Johnson (drums), Robert Robinson (keyboards/vocals), Keren Gaiser (vocals/keyboards) and Clancy Ferrill (guitars). So from the band not having a 'real' keyboard player they now have two, but the real change to these ears is that they also now have two singers. This means that on numbers such as 'Seeing Stars (I & II)' they can utilize the strength of both, and they happily take turns at the front of the stage, while Keren takes the main role. Of the three albums to date, this is easily the best. The band are relaxed and happy onstage, and know exactly what they want to achieve with symphonic neo-prog that is inviting and easy to listen to without ever falling into the trap of being easy listening.

This is reminiscent of late Seventies Genesis, yet somehow in a more symphonic style, with stunning vocals throughout. Indeed, the only real question that has to be asked is why has this band never gained the acclaim they so richly deserve? Now based in the States, surely there are enough progheads over there to take this band to heart and provide the impetus for them to get out there, record a new studio album, and show everyone exactly what they are made of. Songs like 'As You Fall Asleep' are way more powerful on this album than on the studio version, imbued with new life and strength.

Based on what I can hear, Quasar are a much stronger band now than they were in the Eighties and deserve to be a name known by far more than just a few. For more details then visit their site at quasar.netne.net/ or their Reverb Nation store at www.reverbnation.com/store/store/artist_672607