ROOTS OF CONSCIOUSNESS

A well-hidden secret of the 90's US Prog scene, Roots of Consciousness were around since the late-80's, led by charismatic singer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Brian Neuwirth.Apparently they made a demo sometime in early-90's, leading to the issue of a self-titled album on the Synphonic label in 1993.Band crew included Bill Schuessler on keyboards/vocals, Robert Stallings on drums and Matt Miller on bass, while their sole work was carried out with several supporting members on vocals, choirs, sax and keyboards.

The style of the band resided on the heavier side of Progressive Rock with RUSH being an omnipresent influence and the quirky guitar moves of Neuwirth the leading force, surrounded by some nice keyboard lines, much in a GENESIS/BABYLON vein, and having definitely a sligthly theatrical aspect in the vocal parts.This is pretty exciting, energetic and groovy stuff with the power parts reminding of the Alex Lifeson's style and the complex breaks obtaining a discreet KING CRIMSON inspiration.The richer and more emphatic instrumentals recall also of complex US groups such as LAND OF CHOCOLATE and FINNEUS GAUGE.While the album lacks any epic or long compositions, the density of the musical ideas and the tons of changing tempos are more than enough to satisfy the Prog fan.Nuewirth's work on guitars is the absolute highlight, providing punchy riffing, jazzy hooks and dynamic rhythms.But the supporting keyboards of Schuessler are what make the album quite personal, getting it often into complex 70's Prog territories with series of Moog synth, organ and piano moves.The result is a pretty nice effort, full of complicated themes, unexpected breaks, over-the-top vocals with lots of distortions and a high level of passion with strong links to the stylings of the 70's.

Roots of Consciousness supported Yes in their ''Talk'' tour in 1994 and their shows even contained stage theatrics by the supporting crew of the band.Around the same time Miller was replaced by new bassist Wade Summerlin, but the band dissolved in 1995, following the sad death of its leader Brian Neuwirth.Summerlinn went on to form the Heavy Rock band Cobweb Strange.

Unknown little gem of 90's Prog.Challenging, demanding and passionate music, featuring a great guitarist and a bunch of inventive instrumental exercises.Interesting and recommended material.