STYX

Early STYX were a very different band than their later incarnation (aka "Grand Illusion", "Crystal Ball", "Equinox") although I suppose the heart of the band were there. STYX's first album is far more exploratory and 70's'ish in feeling with heavy organ and synth work with some nice and heavy guitar soloing. Vocals are shared between Dennis DeYoung, James Young and John Curulewski and although resonate with the classic STYX feel at times really carry a more raw feel to them (especially so with Curulewski). Standout track for me is the 13 mins epic track "Movement For The Common Man" which monopolizes side 1 of the album and showcases a very different sounding band. Progheads will likely love this tune (as I do). The other really cool feature on this album is the 70's electronics and synths used which sound awesome with the heavier backdrops. Although I also adore the classic STYX era albums it is their debut album that has endured with my innate progressive affiliations.