TALL TALES

Excellent debut album from Crucible, blending elements of Genesis, Tull and Rush with occasional nods to other 70's non-prog bands (I'd love to hear them cover "Carry On Wayward Son", let's put it that way). Keyboard nuts should appreciate this album (as soon as it begins, one is reminded of Tony Banks circa And Then There Were Three/A Curious Feeling/Duke), the guitar work is solid and a terrific rhythm section accompanies the memorable, hummable melodies. Vocals are very strong with nice harmonies - I really like this singer! "The Poet Liar" and "Lords And Leeches" are perfect examples of the band firing on all cylinders, and the short instrumental "In Ancient Tongue" is a particularly gorgeous - if simple - piece which I never tire of. The main melody is pretty with a somewhat haunting feel bubbling just below the surface, all the while backed by acoustic guitar reminiscent of very early Genesis (Trespass period). The epic suite "An Imp's Tale" should further please progheads, and relates well to the album cover.

Nothing particularly adventurous here in terms of originality, but the compositions and playing are so strong that it doesn't seem to matter. Make no mistake - this isn't a 'clone' band in the sense that they are trying to sound like one particular band. I've come back to this album many times over the years.

Overall, a delightfully charming record which will appeal to fans of symphonic and neo-prog in the land of lords and leeches! Highly recommended.