VALENTYNE SUITE

So, what do you do if you want to check out some jazzy rock? You find the top rated albums at progarchives, of course, and give them a go. This was luckily the first one I laid my hands upon, as I later haven't only had great moments with jazz rock. This one contains both some jazz and blues, and may not be the most progressive album of the genre. The year of release considered, though, this sure was innovative and progressive.

It really took me some time to get into it, as I first found the title track a bit dull and eventless. It grew on me eventually though, and I now rate it as one of the great epics in prog. Can't wait until I get to play it loud at home, the laptop speakers and earphones just won't do in the long run. The rest of the tracks are not as good as the title track, naturally, but they're all excellent tracks. I especially like the emotionally charged "Butty's Blues", Heckstall-Smith does an amazing job on the sax; his solo work is some of the best I've ever heard. The vocals are awesome too, as they are throughout the whole album.

Without a doubt a masterpiece for me, though others may not find it progressive enough to rate it as essential. 5 stars.