CALATEA

Calatea was an amazing Swiss band that entered the world of progressive rock quite late, in 1978. It took them some time to develop their own sound and the first album is an evidence of that. From the very first tones, you hear the Yes-like vocals and bass. The keyboard player was attracted closer to Genesis. This is one of the few bands with more dominant keyboards and guitar in the defensive, which would contrast even more in the subsequent releases. We have quite pleasant and versatile instrumental playing, mainly kudos to the keyboard and rhythm section. In addition, flute reminds of Genesis and brass instruments add a jazzier undertone. Two standouts are the long "Volcano" with extensive keyboard showcase and the more emotional "Gate out of Calatea" that has a symphonic solemn ending.

Overall, instrumental performance is above any penning skills and the band had yet to add more of their ingredients into the mix.