UK

Talking about the end of the 70's,things were going really wrong for art rock bands,as progressive rock was completely out of fashion.However,two members of (disbanded by that time) KING CRIMSON, vocalist/bassist John Wetton and drummer Bill Bruford decided to form an all-star prog rock band.Failing to recruit Rick Wakeman,they approached keyboardist/violinist Eddie Jobson (ex-''Roxy Music''),while Allan Holdsworth,noteably known for his work with Canterbury bands ''Gong'' and ''Soft Machine'',was the guitarist of the group.1978 sees UK releasing their simply eponymous debut on EG Records/Polydor.

...and with such a line-up you can not expect more than a thrilling work.Split between radio-friendly vocal-parts and keyboard-dominated complex instrumental pieces,''UK'' was definitely a great product of its time.Eddie Jobson,mayby the less famous member of UK,meant to be their driving force.The album is totally based on his awesome electric violin and the use of Yamaha CS 80,an analog synthesizer of pure power.Especially his keyboard work is absolutely fantastic,ranging from creating superb electronic landscapes to constantly battling with his violin and the rhythm section.Holdsworth guitars are carefully used focusing on nice solos and distinctive melodies,while Bruford is simply the familiar power behind the drum kit.Wetton bass can be dynamic and ethereal at the same time and exactly the same characteristics we meet in his voice.Propably you'll find some parts of the album close to easy-going rock with all those multi-vocal harmonies,but then is when you'll be blown away by the great interplays between violin/keys/synths/bass/guitars and your familiar time signatures....

I find this work to be so extremely well-crafted and carefully arranged,that I almost consider it a crime not to owing it.Exactly the same thing I consider for every progressive rock follower out there.A masterpiece of art rock,despite being created in prog rock's worst period!