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

http://www.b-movieband.com/ - www.b-movieband.com