SMPT:E

Out of the four musicians from this "supergroup", the only one I can't really acclaim is Neal Morse. Mixing religion and music has never been my cup of tea. But this band is indeed a fine combo on paper. So, let's listen to their music!

Well, as you could imagine: a mix between TFK for the instrumental parts (which are fortunately quite long) and "Spock's Beard" for the vocal parts. Juicy guitar sounds, jazzy tendencies and of course a solid drumming are quite alright during the long epic and opening song: "All Of The Above".

Over half an hour which can be related to "The Truth Will Set You Free": it features the same bombastic and positive feel; superb guitar melodies and vocal harmonies. Did you say TFK?

What is sure is that "All Of The Above" is quite a good epic which should please any Flower Kings fans even if it might sound as too much of a "Yes" derivative of course. A highlight.

The power of the band is fully expressed during "Mystery Train". Again, the bombastic effect submerges: being vocally or instrumentally. Each of the band members perfectly knows what to do, at the right time. A good song it is. Splendid keys as well!

This album is actually very good. Most of the songs featured are a highlight (except "We All Need Some Light"). Of course, the music that is proposed is fully TFK oriented. But of the best vein: harmonious, catchy, mighty and skilled. This album is technical but still human. The music is an absolute delight for most of the time. "My New World" is another highlight.

This album shows the best that one can expect when several great musicians get together. Skills are all there, and offer a great musical experience. I was quite skeptical before I first listened to this album, but this is really a very good one.

I don't rate this album with five stars because of the closing number which is too loose and below par on this work. This cover of one of the first prog epic released a long, long time ago by "Procol Harum" doesn't add anything to the greatness of the original. This track could have been perfectly avoided since this lengthy album clocks at over 77 minutes. Sixty would have been perfect.

Anyway: four stars with no problem. This is an excellent album.