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| Cryptic Vision - Moments Of Clarity |
 Released: 2003 Label: Progrock Records Cat. No.: n/a Total Time: 56:49 | |
Reviewed by: Marcel Haster, June 2004 Influenced by the great names in progressive rock and formed by members who have worked with numerous bands, both as performers as well as on the technical side, that is Cryptic Vision in one sentence. And this gives you an idea what to expect from this band. The line-up is: Todd Plant (Millenium, Eyewitness) on vocals, Robert Van Dyne (Zion, Broken Wing) on keyboards and guitars and main songwriter Rick Duncan, who also plays drums and keyboards (including mellotron). Moments Of Clarity, the debut album of the three gents, is a real treat, as the album is filled with lush soundscapes, almost epic at times. Vocalist Plant (related to Robert Plant?) has got a powerful, slightly high pitched voice, although he also has no problems with the lower range of his vocals. The harmony vocals add warmth and depth to the songs. From complex prog songs, such as the title track "Moments Of Clarity," to heavenly sounds, as in "Angel's Requiem," where piano and the (wordless) female voices bring you on a higher spiritual plane. The guitar solos by Van Dyne are great, but I also enjoy the rhythm guitar arrangements in the music. The album keeps a good pace in the songs, but the vocals and excellent music will just carry you along here. After a few spins I can only say this is progressive rock I love to hear it. It has some elements of Kansas and Spock's Beard in it, maybe because of the participation of former Kansas violin player David Ragsdale (who if I had a say in the matter, would have gotten a larger role on the album!), but their sound is not a copy of any other band. I truly appreciate the compositions of Rick Duncan, as he knows how to write strong, yet catchy songs. I have enjoyed the entire album, but my favourite track is "Moments Of Clarity," clocking over 12 minutes, as this has so much in it and there is so much to explore in this song. Nevertheless, the rest of the album is just as great to listen to. Let's hope this is not a one time album, as Rick Duncan has more creativity like this, we can expect more lush and tasty music coming our way! I can only but recommend this. PPO Rating: 8/10 [This review originally appeared at the ProgPower Online review site; see also Dave's and John M's reviews -ed.] More about Moments Of Clarity: Track Listing: Introspective (5:06) / New Perspective (4:05) / Contemplation (4:16) / Grand Design (7:16) / Angeline (4:22) / Losing Faith (2:25) / Angels Requiem (2:14) / Colored Leaf (4:44) / Shock Value (4:03) / Moments of Clarity (12:28): l. Flash of Life- ll. Abaddon - lll. In Due Time lV. Hope for Tomorrow / Ascenscion (5:42) Musicians: Contact: Websites: Discography | |