Cryptic Vision Live

I am a bit ashamed to say, I am a musician, and I have never been to a CD release party. That is until Fri June 29^th at the Sailing Squadron in Sarasota, Fl. I am supposed to support local arts and artists, but have conveniently found other things to take up my time. I have to again admit, I am not sure I will ever want to go again, unless the band is Cryptic Vision. That is because they have spoiled it. Yes, I am a fan. I am biased. I have friends in this band. Long time friends. But then again I have lots of long time friends in the music business, and none of the experiences have ever prompted me to write.

 

It was a casual setting, outside, wine beer and munchies. The no-see-ums were biting pretty badly, but plenty of people to see and re-acquaint with. Then as the evening settled in, with no real fanfare, Cryptic Vision took the stage. The members ambled up, kind of plunked their instruments to ensure of their operation. Then, just like their second CD opens, so does the concert. The silence swells into a colossal forest of music. It is filled with colors, textures, and of course, sounds that have not been approached before. It was like discovering a new tribe deep in the rain forest.

The main writer, Rick Duncan, has truly created an epic sound. Along with Howard Helm, (keyboards, vocals), Sam Conable (bass, vocals) Tim Keese, (guitar, vocals) and of course the unforgettable voice of Todd Plant, Rick has gathered these humble musical giants together in a true super group. Confident, but never audacious, intricate, but not delicate, technical, but not without emotion. These are the best ways I can describe the Cryptic Vision experience. I left that evening vowing to myself to be a better musician, inspired by the beauty I had just witnessed. I implore you to go see Cryptic Vision. It is not just progressive rock, it is an experience. Bravo gentlemen, Bravo

 

Al Owen

www.b-movieband.com

http://www.myspace.com/soiledporpoise

Just saw them Friday at Calprog and I was expecting them to be good because I have a had a few weeks to get into the new CD In a World and the live one from the 2005 Rosfest.  This band is killer live. While they have influences I think they make them their own but really got to me is only one prog band slams it in your face right from the start the way the guys do live and that is Kansas. I don't mean they sound like a Kansas clone I mean it is like going from 60mph to hitting a wall.  It just throws you back in your seat in its intensity. They have quiet moments, epic moments and rock moments too.  But they open with the 16 minute suite that has such a dynamic ending you think they would save that for the end of the set.   (believe me I was sitting in the front row. I could feel my hair move from the force coming off the stage.)