MARS HOLLOW

Mars Hollow is one of the very few bands that have successfully managed to show a more accessible side of classically inspired symphonic prog... nonetheless, don't expect to listen to them on regular radio...

The musicians are highly skilled and the music never gets boring! Every instrument and performer featured here is, without doubt, a highlight. But as big keyboard fan, what I enjoyed the most are Steve Mach's Keith Emerson inspired, but still original, keys (specially the organ!).

Both the instrumental and vocal sections are highly enjoyable and interesting. John Baker's voice delivers very competent and pleasant vocal work, reminiscent to Jon Anderson, Roger Hogdson and Geddy Lee (high pitched tenor) but, at the same time, it has its own particular signature. Despite of those references, Baker does a better job as guitar player and he doesn't measure up to those brilliant vocal performers.

The album kicks off with Wait for Me, a very Neo-Proggish piece with the classic prog inspiration (mainly Yes) flavored with a modern approach, this makes them somewhat reminiscent to Spock's Beard. Nonetheless, here you won't find any cloning: the music is 100% original. Highlights on this track are the rhythm section and keyboards. 4.25

Midnight is the first demonstration of the band's accessible qualities. The instrumentation is quite solid and the vocals aren't band either. 3.75

Eureka is one my favorite moments of the album, with its keyboard dominated nature it just screams Keith Emerson! But with the addition of the Mars Hollow touch we have a very interesting output. 4.5

If I Were You presents one of the best vocal performances of the album. Nice piece and an outstanding demonstration of what this group can do as a team. 4

In Your Hands is another great work, this time a bit softer and accessible but still of high quality. 4

The last two tracks are also among my favorite sections of the album. Wild Animal showcases more of the best vocals presented here and the guitar just shines + some great drumming, bass and keyboards complete the formula for a great song. 4.5

Dawn of Creation is the lengthiest track of the album and a magnificent way of closing the album. Here you can witness the full power of Mars Hollow with an amazing interplay between the musicians. 4.6

This band couldn't work so well without a solid rhythm section. And the dynamic duet of Jerry Beller (Drums) and Kerry Chicoine (Bass) is more than that! Specially during those Yes inspired bass lines!

Another thing worth mentioning is all the amazing soloing. Sometimes jazzy and others pure symphonic, they make the band shine and definitively positions them in prog territory borderline crossover and symphonic (not just sophisticated sounding mainstream rock with prog tendencies).

Total: 4.23

Here you wont find anything really innovative or groundbreaking, but recommended to fans of classic prog ala ELP and Yes who don't mind a more accessible and modern approach.

There are some minor details they have to work out (such as the vocals, which heave their brilliant moments but still need something else...) but still a great debut, and I hear that it will pale in comparison to their upcoming album... If so, we are going to be getting something close to or even a masterpiece (because if you improve this one a bit there is nothing else you could get )...

For now 4 very solid stars!

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