LIVE AT ROSFEST 2005

I must say, I really loved Cryptic Vision's first CD, "Moments of Clarity", but seeing these guys perform live was like getting a direct infusion of nuclear power. From the opening notes these guys were ON. I was suddenly wide awake, aware and clearly in the presence of some kick ass great players. Todd Plant sang his heart out and man this dude could hit those high notes. By the end of the show he was totally spent and it was a good thing they had run out of time as I do not think Todd had even one short encore left in him. One cool thing these guys did was a medley supposedly paying homage to prog gods of days past. They started with "The Water" by Spock's Beard, Yes "Yours Is No Disgrace", Kansas "Song for America", Dream Theater "Erotomania" and ELP "Karn Evil 9". Now while I do not think bands like Dream Theater or even Spock's Beard should be or even could be considered prog gods of old, I suspect no one could argue that both those two bands are clearly influences of Cryptic Vision. I could not imagine a better opening act for Sunday and it was funny that while some missed the opening minutes of their set, most of the weekend attendees did get to see these guys and how they put their entire heart and soul in their music. Next year I bet a lot more people make sure they are on time for the Sunday opening band as you just never know. Cryptic Vision has definitely raised the bar.

Stephen Ellis, Prog4you.com