Prog Recommendations/Featured albums - Rushfan4's New CD Thread 8

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Rushfan4's New CD Thread 8 - Shadow Circus

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Forum Name: Prog Recommendations/Featured albums
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URL: http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64762
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Topic: Rushfan4's New CD Thread 8 - Shadow Circus

Posted By: rushfan4
Subject: Rushfan4's New CD Thread 8 - Shadow Circus
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 11:03

In continuation of my meager attempt to divert some PA forum discussion time away from Porcupine Tree, Dream Theater and the other usual suspects, here is my 8th installment of Rushfan4's New CD Discussion Thread. Recently, there has been an inordinate amount of discussions and polls regarding Dream Theater, so hopefully we are looking of a change. As promised, this month's album that I think that others would enjoy and like to discuss is Shadow Circus' Whispers and Screams. Shadow Circus is also PA member JPlanet's band. For those who might see this thread and are not aware of this, the band has decided to give all proceeds from the sale of the CD through February 14th to causes to aid Haiti's recovery from the earthquake that struck it last month. If you do not have this album yet, please check out their website for details on purchasing the CD or downloading the MP3s. http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/ - http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/

Here is a link to their PA page. http://www.progarchives.com/artist.asp?id=2878 - http://www.progarchives.com/artist.asp?id=2878 The entire album can be streamed from this page.

Shadow Circus are a symphonic prog band from the New York City area. Whispers and Screams is the second release from Shadow Circus.

On a personal note, growing up I was a Stephen King junkie, having to real all of his books and see all of the movies based on them. My favorite book from is The Stand. A book, which is unusual in that I actually read it twice. I also really enjoyed the 6 hour miniseries that was based on the book. Whispers and Screams is a treat for me because it begins with the 7-part song Project Blue, which clocks in at over 30 minutes and is based on the book The Stand.

I know that a number of PA users have already picked up this album, but if you haven't I highly recommend doing so. Please use this thread to discuss your thoughts on this album. Your likes and dislikes regarding the music and the lyrics, etc... I look forward to what I hope will be an active and lengthy discussion.

In case you missed the first seven installments of the New CD discussion thread please check them out here at thes links:

Astra - The Weirding- http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=59071&PN=1 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=59071&PN=1

The Wishing Tree - Ostara - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=59948 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=59948

Eureka - Shackleton's Voyage - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=60977&PID=3398325#3398325 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=60977&PID=3398325#3398325

Lobster Newberg - Actress http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=61661&PN=1 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=61661&PN=1

Knifeworld - Buried Alone: Tales of Crushing Defeat - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62529&PID=3457937#3457937 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=62529&PID=3457937#3457937

Brother Ape - Turbulence http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=63402&PID=3504510#3504510 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=63402&PID=3504510#3504510

Black Bonzo - Guillotine Drama http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64197&PN=1 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64197&PN=1

I should note that for those who frown about these things, I am not a representative of any of these bands. I do not get paid to endorse them. All of these albums are albums that I purchased as downloads. They are all albums that I have really enjoyed and therefore I am trying to bring them to the attention of PA members so that they may enjoy them to. Obviously, I can't guarantee that anyone else will like these albums since it is all a matter of taste, but I have a feeling that there are some of you out there who will.

I should also mention that although I am a Collaborator here at PA, this thread and recommendation is made entirely independently of my duties as a PA collaborator, and is also totally independent of the PA Artist of the Month that is endorsed by mailto:M@x - M@x , the site's owner.

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Replies:

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 11:06

Also, in case you missed it, here is a link to an interview that E-Dub had with Shadow Circus guitarist John Fontana, aka JPlanet. http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=61842&FID=47 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=61842&FID=47

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 14:34

Thank you for staring this thread, Scott! As I mentioned in the thread about the Haiti charity, I will be happy to be on hand to answer any questions if anyone has any - but I will politely stay back otherwise to allow for an unbiased discussion without concern that I am hanging around! Smile

Of course, that doesn't mean go ahead and throw us under the bus! Wink

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: Epignosis
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 14:37

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=257914 - - This album completely stinks. Don't waste your money.

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https://epignosis.bandcamp.com/album/a-month-of-sundays" rel="nofollow - https://epignosis.bandcamp.com/album/a-month-of-sundays

Posted By: J-Man
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 14:38

Hey Scott!

I've really been loving this album lately - easily in my top 10 albums of 2009. The musicianship is fantastic, the songwriting is mature and developed, and best of all; this album is original. It's rare nowadays to see a young symphonic prog band that's not a clone of Genesis or Yes, and Shadow Circus is definitely an exception.

I still need to get the debut album one of these days. If it's anything like Whispers and Screams, I'm sure I'll love it!

-Jeff

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Check out my YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 16:33

Epignosis wrote:

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=257914 -

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 16:37

J-Man wrote:

Hey Scott!

I've really been loving this album lately - easily in my top 10 albums of 2009. The musicianship is fantastic, the songwriting is mature and developed, and best of all; this album is original. It's rare nowadays to see a young symphonic prog band that's not a clone of Genesis or Yes, and Shadow Circus is definitely an exception.

I still need to get the debut album one of these days. If it's anything like Whispers and Screams, I'm sure I'll love it!

-Jeff

I'm hoping to give Shadows and Whispers a number of listens this month. I bought it when John first made them available, but I have been on a huge buying spree lately and I have only given this CD a few spins. I definitely like what I have heard and hopefully it will grow even more on me with each additional listen.

You should definitely pick up Welcome to the Freakroom when you get a chance. The album cover never fails to creep me out, but the music inside is excellent.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 16:42

Very good album indeed - a welcome new spin on Symphonic Prog, with enough hard-edged moments to keep this Heavy Prog fan satisfied Wink

, and a refreshing avoidance of the clichés all too often associated with the subgenre. And then, even if I am not a Stephen King fan (Micky is much more than I am), I cannot but praise any album based on a book, instead of some outlandish or run-of-the-mill concept.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 17:02

I'll be curious to see Micky's opinion from a Stephen King fan point of view. You're right about this album being able to keep a Heavy Prog fan satisfied.

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Posted By: Epignosis
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 17:05

rushfan4 wrote:

Epignosis wrote:

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=257914 - - This album completely stinks. Don't waste your money.

Having an "opposite" day again Rob? Hopefully nobody stops at this point without reading your review.

Hopefully people are smart enough to...

...aww, sh*t. I guess I better edit my post. Disapprove

__________

I guess all I will say that isn't in my review is that I've been listening to this album on http://www.aiiradio.net - http://www.aiiradio.net since it began getting airplay there, and it has done nothing but grow on me like the nasty musical leech that it is.

Folks, this is good stuff.

If I had a stamp of approval, I would sell it, buy a bigger stamp of approval, and stamp this album twice.

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https://epignosis.bandcamp.com/album/a-month-of-sundays" rel="nofollow - https://epignosis.bandcamp.com/album/a-month-of-sundays

Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 17:10

Epignosis wrote:

...
Hopefully people are smart enough to...
...

LOL, you look at warning labels on most products and you can imagine that all those manufacturers must have said that phrase to themselves at some point!

I liked the joke, anyway! Tongue

As you were, pretend like I'm not here!

(Grabs batch of popcorn)...

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 17:13

I downloaded Shadow Circus about 2 weeks ago.....not bad. Would not write home about it...I don't hate it. I would probably listen to it more but all these polls on Dream Theater, Yes, Floyd...have my PA time all wrapped up right now.

Posted By: memowakeman
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 22:03

Very nice, I listened to both Shadow Circus albums last week for the very first time, I took a good impresion and liked what I heard, but I must re-listen to them soon.

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Follow me on twitter @memowakeman

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 01 2010 at 22:14

My copy is still in the mail ... I will chime back in once it arrives :)

Posted By: progmetalhead
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 02:56

I've kinda made my opinion fairly well known in other threads but anywayz W & S's was my runner-up album of last year.

Thanks John, it is a masterpiece in my eyes and to my ageing ears.

It's been on rotation ever since I received it.

..and don't take too much notice of Rob, he listens to that heavy metal crap far too much these days!

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http://www.last.fm/user/colt2112" rel="nofollow - http://www.last.fm/user/colt2112

Colt - Admin Team MMA

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 08:34

Listening to Shadows and Whispers in the car now. One of the negatives of a short commute is that there was only time to make it through the first two tracks. The booklet doesn't include the lyrics, so that means that it is up to my ears to try and figure out what is being sung. Captain Trips will take a couple of more listens I think as I could only make out about half of what was being sung. The Long Road Home on the other hand I could pretty much make out everything and it was an excellent track to listen to. Definitely brought back memories from reading the book. Unfortunately, I will be waiting for the commute home to listen to the next two songs.

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 10:04

* A quick note for those looking for lyrics: We have a downloadable PDF which prints into a very nice booklet with all the lyrics on the website at http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/lyrics%20 - http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/lyrics

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 10:08

Thanks John. I was actually going to check later and see if you did have the lyrics on your website. That link doesn't seem to be working?

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 10:24

Oops, sorry about the typo: http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/lyrics - http://www.shadowcircusmusic.com/lyrics

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 10:27

If you all don't mind, I am going to try a little something different with this month's thread. I have created a poll for choosing your favorite Shadow Circus album. See the attached link. http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64792&PID=3536863#3536863 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64792&PID=3536863#3536863

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Posted By: The Quiet One
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 10:37

Great album, and like I and others stated in their reviews and posts, it's a fresh new spin of modern Symphonic Prog.

Not sure how it compares to their debut since I haven't heard it though.

Favorite track: Part 5 of Project Blue, The Horsemen Ride.

Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 14:25

Ok I just downloaded Freakroom.....listening to it now....so far so good...Shadow Circus track 1, is pretty good

Will give more info when I am done

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Posted By: J-Man
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 14:34

I'm hoping on reviewing the album this week with a BIG 4 star rating. I might get to it today, but I have a lot of homework tonight...

-Jeff

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Check out my YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime

Posted By: Catcher10
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 14:43

Lovin the keyboards in Storm Rider.....so far like this better than Whispers & Screams...still not done though...

Posted By: lazland
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 14:46

Thanks for putting this on Scott. I'm listening to the samples on the band's website now, and I'm really enjoying what I am hearing. This is good stuff, and another good example of how the site can introduce us all to new stuff.

I think I've discovered February's spending money subject Wink

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Enhance your life. Get down to www.lazland.org

Now also broadcasting on www.progzilla.com Every Saturday, 4.00 p.m. UK time!

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 15:01

Hey Steve, You're welcome. I'm glad that you are enjoying the samples. At the very least, if you download the album from their website the proceeds will go to a good cause, so it'll help with 'splaining to the wife why the money was spent.

Actually, E-Dub brought Shadow Circus to my attention a couple of years ago so I have him to thank for my getting to know the band. Although it helps that John is a site member as well. I know that E-Dub really likes Shadow Circus, so that sort of connects them to Marillion for you.

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Posted By: Roland113
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 18:46

Hey guys,

A couple of thoughts:

Scott, I've always loved the New CD's thread, a great idea from the get go.

Second, extra kudos for picking something that was streamable, let's face it, I'm broke and the ability to listen to a new artist or even a new album all of the way through is a huge bonus to the cash strapped.

Third, (and this part is more to JPlannet), I love the thought of basing a song on "The Stand" what a great book and a great body of work to use as inspiration.

Fourth (and final for the moment), I'm only on the second song but it sounds really good, I'm enjoying what I'm hearing.

Clap

to all involved.

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-------someone please tell him to delete this line, he looks like a noob-------

I don't have an unnatural obsession with Disney Princesses, I have a fourteen year old daughter and coping mechanisms.

Posted By: Roland113
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 18:48

^ oh and I forgot, fantastic cover art, I've been appreciating seeing it on the web site for a month or two now, I even pointed it out to a co-worker who is an artist as well. He thought is was very cool.

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-------someone please tell him to delete this line, he looks like a noob-------

I don't have an unnatural obsession with Disney Princesses, I have a fourteen year old daughter and coping mechanisms.

Posted By: E-Dub
Date Posted: February 02 2010 at 19:22

Just listened to this today. Probably have spun it about 6 or 7 times since I got it and it gets better with every listen. A great leap forward from the already amazing Freakroom with a ball-busting epic to kick it off.

Surprisingly, "Willoughby" could be my favorite tune. "Project Blue" may still edge it, but it's close.

E

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 03 2010 at 11:42

Just in case anyone is interested who is not familiar with the Twilight Zone inspiration for "Willoughby", this is a video edit done by a fan of the famous episode the song is based on : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgoP0-7dbIg - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgoP0-7dbIg

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 03 2010 at 12:07

Thanks for sharing that John. That was a pretty awesome mashup. I wasn't familiar with that episode of the Twilight Zone, so it certainly shed new light on that song.

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Posted By: Vibrationbaby
Date Posted: February 03 2010 at 13:35

Funny that I was familiar with the Twighlight Zone episode since as kids we used to watch the reruns back in the 70s. The Willoughby episode is one of the more popular ones among fans just like the Star Trek episode City on The Edge Of Forever is with Trekies. I actually am not a big Strephen King fan but checked out a graphic novel version of The Stand in our local library just to get the gist of it. I managed to get a second hand copy of the full novel itself and will get around to it. This sort of reminds me of wanting to read some of the Herman Hesse stuff Yes were singing about on Close To The Edge!

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 04 2010 at 15:43

Now you've got me interested in the Hesse references on Close to the Edge - I was a big fan of Siddhartha and Steppenwolf, and almost made it through Magister Ludi - I wonder what the references are in Close to the Edge...

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: J-Man
Date Posted: February 07 2010 at 13:19

I've just reviewed the album if anyone's interested Smile

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804 - http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804

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Check out my YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime

Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 08 2010 at 19:52

Interview with the band on Canadian radio as I type -- you can also tune in from anywhere via streaming audio: http://www.thex.ca/ - http://www.thex.ca/

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 09 2010 at 09:19

J-Man wrote:

I've just reviewed the album if anyone's interested Smile

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804 - http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804

Hi Jeff, I've just read your review. I am glad to see that you enjoyed the album. Interestingly, I was going through all of my ELP albums last week, and I'll be finishing them up this week. The next time that I listen to the album I'll have to see if I can hear the ELP references that you are referring to in your review.

By the way, have you read Stephen King's The Stand, or at least seen the mini-series? I find that Project Blue is a good interpretation of the book and reading it might enhance your listens to this album. Assuming that you haven't read it before.

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 11 2010 at 09:09

Time to try and liven the discussion up a bit again. I have created a second associated poll for this album to give you something more to think about and discuss. Check it out. http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64997&PID=3546730#3546730 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=64997&PID=3546730#3546730

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Posted By: J-Man
Date Posted: February 11 2010 at 12:15

rushfan4 wrote:

J-Man wrote:

I've just reviewed the album if anyone's interested Smile

http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804 - http://www.progarchives.com/Review.asp?id=264804

I actually have never read anything from Stephen King, but I think I might buy The Stand one of these days. Smile

By the way, I just posted in your poll.

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Check out my YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime" rel="nofollow - http://www.youtube.com/user/demiseoftime

Posted By: progkidjoel
Date Posted: February 12 2010 at 15:29

Sorry for being late to the discussion guys!

This is a great album, really fantastic stuff. Has an incredibly original sound and flow, too. The theatrical noise and quick hops in pace make it really replayable to

As I said in the poll, my favourite track is Willoughby.

Good to see so much interest in this one

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 12 2010 at 15:37

Welcome to the thread Joel. I'm giving it another listen as I type. Actually just finishing up with Then In July, The Thunder Came. I've liked this album from the outset, but it does keep getting better with each listen. Geez, now I sound like Alex. Obviously, the music has sound the same with each listen, I am just enjoying it more and more. Angel is actually even better then I gave it credit for, and I am absolutely loving Then In July.

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 14 2010 at 10:10

I just finished up listening to Welcome to the Freakroom, and I am following it up with a second listen. I really enjoyed this album when I first got it, and I am really enjoying listening to it again right now. But, in my opinion, as good as this first album is, Whispers and Screams is a step above and a step in the right direction to my ears. Either way, good stuff.

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Posted By: progmetalhead
Date Posted: February 16 2010 at 02:33

John,

I read a few reviews the other day, one of which criticised the track order, especially the final track being Then in July.

I don't go along with this but would like to hear your thoughts as to how you came to selecting the final order.

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http://www.last.fm/user/colt2112" rel="nofollow - http://www.last.fm/user/colt2112

Colt - Admin Team MMA

Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 16 2010 at 02:59

progmetalhead wrote:

John,

I read a few reviews the other day, one of which criticised the track order, especially the final track being Then in July.

I don't go along with this but would like to hear your thoughts as to how you came to selecting the final order.

Oh, I could go on about this! But I'll try to tell it as succinctly as I can...

When Dave presented the song "Angel", one of the things he insisted on was that it end with the sound of rain. As I was writing "Then in July", there was literally a thunder storm outside as I was playing back the timpani part (which Corey played on toms later) - anyway, when I heard the sound of thunder with the percussion, it occurred to me to blend it form the end of "Angel", so those pieces became linked.

I haven't heard anyone mention this yet, so I'm not sure if it's obvious - but Then in July is actually a musical reprise of Willoughby - it's the same chord progression as the Willoughby verses, and also briefly reprises the middle choir part...I had somewhat intended Willoughby and Then in July to book-end "side two" in this way...BTW, every song on "side two" is a story about regret - When Morning Comes is about love lost, Willoughby about a man regretting his life, Angel is about a father who regrets abusing his daughter, and since Then in July is a Bolero (the Spanish dance always told the story of two lovers that ultimately ends tragically), that makes up the theme of "side two"...

Many are confused at the way Then In July ends - it just dies out sort of suddenly, but not in any big, glorious way. I wanted it to end the way a life would really end in that old Bolero's story - as C.S. Lewis once said, "not with a bang, but a whimper"...

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 10:50

I do find that interesting. Aside from Willoughby, I haven't really come away from my listens recognizing the darker undertones that the second half seems to have from your comments. I will have to take that knowledge into my next listen to see how it effects my listening experience.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 14:03

Well, just put the album on... The opening track is killer, with some fantastic, Purple-hued organ work. Really an album that redefines Symphonic Prog in modern terms. I will take particular care with my review, because I believe this is an effort that deserves a lot more exposure.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 14:16

I look forward to reading your review Raff. If you are posting it on the other site, if it is OK to do so, could you post a link to it in this thread.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 14:40

I will try to write a review for PA too, since John was so nice as to send me the album. However, I have become much slower in writing reviews, and lately it takes me forever to produce something I will be happy with.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 15:01

There are only so many words that can be used to describe albums before you start repeating yourself. Kind of like trying to be a musician and stay original.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: February 19 2010 at 15:06

rushfan4 wrote:

There are only so many words that can be used to describe albums before you start repeating yourself. Kind of like trying to be a musician and stay original.

That's all too true, and then I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist. I want to do the album justice, anyway, and will try my best to do so.

Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: February 21 2010 at 12:23

rushfan4 wrote:

I hope I didn't taint your own perspective too much! Must resist temptation to interfere with discussion! The theme of regret is sometimes subtle, and not necessarily the primary emotion, such as When Morning Comes, which is predominantly bittersweet but hopeful, and Then in July, which is primarily about passion...But the important thing is what is conveyed, not necessarily what was intended, so let the music take you where you want it to, not where I say it should! ;-)

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https://www.facebook.com/ShadowCircus/" rel="nofollow - ..::welcome to the shadow circus::..

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 22 2010 at 16:06

My copy just arrived in the mail - I'm going to go listen to it for the first time, and will return with thoughts once I am done!

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 22 2010 at 16:06

Cool.

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Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 22 2010 at 17:19

First impressions - I like this album. High points for me were Parts 5 and 6 of the big epic, and the last track. I definitely was digging the drummer, he does some things that sound really great. Not to disparage the rest of the band, I just notice drumming as a separate entity first.

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 12:43

Listening to it for the third time right now. The Horsemen Ride is definitely sticking up there as one of my top tracks on the album. It's one of those songs where all the elements are combining in a way that actually works rather well on me, I'm getting very into it. Kind of has a country flair to it in my ears, but it works really well. Willoughby is also growing on me.

Without jumping the gun too fast, any word on what the album for next month is going to be? I should probably order a copy soon if I want to be able to join in the discussions. :D

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 12:49

Without jumping the gun too fast, any word on what the album for next month is going to be? I should probably order a copy soon if I want to be able to join in the discussions. :D

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 13:01

TheGazzardian wrote:

First impressions - I like this album. High points for me were Parts 5 and 6 of the big epic, and the last track. I definitely was digging the drummer, he does some things that sound really great. Not to disparage the rest of the band, I just notice drumming as a separate entity first.

A lot of times I find myself drawn to the drumming first too, and I agree that he does a really fine job here, especially on songs like The Long Road and The Horsemen Ride. I also really enjoy the guitar and keyboard/organ work as well. I'm really enjoying The Big Fire (pt 3) right now. The intro was really good and the tempo changes within are really good.

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 13:11

TheGazzardian wrote:

Listening to it for the third time right now. The Horsemen Ride is definitely sticking up there as one of my top tracks on the album. It's one of those songs where all the elements are combining in a way that actually works rather well on me, I'm getting very into it. Kind of has a country flair to it in my ears, but it works really well. Willoughby is also growing on me.

Without jumping the gun too fast, any word on what the album for next month is going to be? I should probably order a copy soon if I want to be able to join in the discussions. :D

If you get a chance check out the link that JPlanet provided above to the Willoughby video. At least for me, it really enhanced my view of the song since it really worked well in my opinion.

Good question on next month's selection. I usually think of it the day that I post.

This month was unusual because I was helping promote the band's endeavor for Haiti. I'll take a look at what I have recently received to see if I have anything that I have enjoyed but neglected.

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Posted By: Matthew T
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 14:07

Great stuff Scott. I will be getting a disc so I can play it through the Sound System. Too good to listen to it again using the computer. I may even have to purchase my first Mp file ever

The Horsemen Ride is great and really stood out for me as well but the whole album wonderful.

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Matt

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 14:37

rushfan4 wrote:

If you get a chance check out the link that JPlanet provided above to the Willoughby video. At least for me, it really enhanced my view of the song since it really worked well in my opinion.

I just checked it out - you're right, it's a great video, really added to the song.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 15:02

Are you familiar with that particular Twilight Zone episode? I really find it quite amazing what things/items etc... musicians run across in their lives that inspire them to write their songs.

As I mentioned near the beginning I love how their epic suite is based on the Stephen King book The Stand. Which leads me into having some more "fun" with this. Are you familiar with, or are you interest in, any other songs, prog or otherwise, that are based on Stephen King novels or movies? If so, then check out this thread which will be used to list these songs. http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=65318&PID=3562356#3562356 - http://www.progarchives.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=65318&PID=3562356#3562356

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Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 15:16

rushfan4 wrote:

Are you familiar with that particular Twilight Zone episode? I really find it quite amazing what things/items etc... musicians run across in their lives that inspire them to write their songs.

I wasn't familiar with it beforehand, but it was in the "similar videos" link on the sidebar so I watched it on youtube after I watched the song video. It's pretty good, it's actually the first Twilight Zone episode I've seen, so now I'm a bit more interested in the show. (All I knew about it before was the cheesy intro xD)

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 24 2010 at 15:26

I'm no expert on the Twilight Zone. I remember seeing a number of episodes a number of years ago. Some episodes were quite good. Others not so much. It would be curious to see them from a new "older and wiser" perspective. Many of the episodes were quite creepy and also had the Hitchcock type endings to them.

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 26 2010 at 14:23

I'm giving this album what is probably my final listen of the month, although with two days left I might just sneak in another listen or two.

After giving it some thought, for the month of March the album that I would like to discuss is Roswell Six's Terra Incognita. It is available for purchase at ProgRock Records, where Shawn Gordon has offered a $2 discount on the physical CD for PA members by adding the promotion code 2009 when you purchase the CD. Here is a link to the website where there are multiple reviews for you to peruse and audio samples can be heard. http://www.progrockrecords.com/shop/view.php?id=188&PHPSESSID=a87847eca49b9a49bba4ece1a65e45b7 - http://www.progrockrecords.com/shop/view.php?id=188&PHPSESSID=a87847eca49b9a49bba4ece1a65e45b7 The album can also be downloaded from Mindawn in either Flac or OGG format. http://www.mindawn.com/search.php?PHPSESSID=215a3f78322afd017bd310ce9b4405b6&s=roswell+six - http://www.mindawn.com/search.php?PHPSESSID=215a3f78322afd017bd310ce9b4405b6&s=roswell+six

I will post a more official thread with more details and other links on Monday, but in case you are interested in getting a small head start on this album. I look forward to discussing it with anyone who would like to discuss it.

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: February 28 2010 at 21:34

Ironically, the SyFy channel is playing The Stand tonight.

Thank you everyone for participating in this month's thread. Special thanks to John Fontana for both providing the music and participating in the thread. Just because the month has ended, doesn't mean that we can't still discuss this album from time to time. In the meantime, keep your eyes open for the posting of the March edition of the new CD discussion.

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Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: March 01 2010 at 20:27

This just in: this album is "girlfriend" approved. (Aka, my girfriend, who hates King Crimson, VDGG, most Gentle Giant, Genesis, Yes, and almost everything else I listen to, is listening to it with me right now and has said positive things).

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: March 01 2010 at 20:34

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Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: March 01 2010 at 20:37

She even said she likes the album art! Without even knowing it was the same album no less! XD

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:20

Based on Olav's review, the Roswell Six album is also girlfriend friendly.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:31

rushfan4 wrote:

Based on Olav's review, the Roswell Six album is also girlfriend friendly.

to stereotypes about women's tastes. Personally, what I heard of Roswell Six didn't rock my world, and I can enjoy something even in the absence of love stories.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:35

Yes, I know Raff, but we all know that you are one in a million when it comes to your musical tastes.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:47

rushfan4 wrote:

Yes, I know Raff, but we all know that you are one in a million when it comes to your musical tastes.

That might very well be, but I don't believe it is that much different for men. It is not as if prog fans are to be found around every corner anyway Wink

. And, since I am still a woman, seeing such remarks on a regular basis is getting a bit old.

Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:54

If I might borrow this.

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Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 08:56

Of course you can Wink

! Our cats are available to everyone...

Posted By: TheGazzardian
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 10:00

Raff wrote:

rushfan4 wrote:

Based on Olav's review, the Roswell Six album is also girlfriend friendly.

to stereotypes about women's tastes. Personally, what I heard of Roswell Six didn't rock my world, and I can enjoy something even in the absence of love stories.

Perhaps I should have phrased it as "spouse friendly" or "non-prog fan friendly" to avoid offending anyone. xD

Posted By: Padraic
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 10:03

TheGazzardian wrote:

Raff wrote:

rushfan4 wrote:

Based on Olav's review, the Roswell Six album is also girlfriend friendly.

to stereotypes about women's tastes. Personally, what I heard of Roswell Six didn't rock my world, and I can enjoy something even in the absence of love stories.

Perhaps I should have phrased it as "spouse friendly" or "non-prog fan friendly" to avoid offending anyone. xD

I think you're all good because you're talking about your girlfriend - it's not a stereotype, it's a fact that she doesn't care for almost any prog. Same with my wife.

Posted By: Raff
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 10:04

TheGazzardian wrote:

Raff wrote:

rushfan4 wrote:

Based on Olav's review, the Roswell Six album is also girlfriend friendly.

to stereotypes about women's tastes. Personally, what I heard of Roswell Six didn't rock my world, and I can enjoy something even in the absence of love stories.

Perhaps I should have phrased it as "spouse friendly" or "non-prog fan friendly" to avoid offending anyone. xD

Oh, I wasn't offended by your post at all Wink

... It's just that life as one of the very few women on this forum is not always easy. In the past there have been countless threads about how women only like 'easy' music and so on, which is somewhat frustrating. And, in any case, the original definition was not yours Smile

Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: March 02 2010 at 12:28

rushfan4 wrote:

Ironically, the SyFy channel is playing The Stand tonight.

Special thanks to YOU for featuring our humble little work for discussion! It was an indulgent treat for me to get to see what others think of it on a conversational context like this...and of course, I agree, feel free to discuss it CONSTANTLY! Wink

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Posted By: jplanet
Date Posted: March 05 2010 at 10:45

I thought I would stop by to post a new Interview by Jerry Lucky, author of "The Progressive Rock Files"...features a track-by-track explanation of Project Blue, and how the music relates to the The Stand: http://www.jerrylucky.com/interviews_023.htm - http://www.jerrylucky.com/interviews_023.htm

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Posted By: rushfan4
Date Posted: April 04 2010 at 16:50

The SyFy channel is playing The Stand again today. Not very Easterish I don't think but I am enjoying it again.

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