Cathedral - Stained Glass Stories

Year of Release: 1991
Label: Syn-Phonic
Catalog Number: SYNCD3
Format: CD
Total Time: 45:52:00

In today's world of technology, almost anyone can sit in their basement and record a quality sounding CD. Back in the 70s, I am sure it took some significant $$$ to be able to record an LP's worth of material. Cathedral's Stained Glass Stories is an example of an independent band in the 70s that was able to produce a quality sounding recording without the backing of a label, a major accomplishment. All that aside, the best part is that the music is worthy of being recorded.

Lovers of the Mellotron rejoice, as Cathedral puts the 'Tron to good and frequent use. The band most closely resembles Yes musically, with a bit of Genesis thrown in. Vocalist Paul Seal's delivery can at times be overdramatic, (and some annoying vocal effects don't help) and though I don't think he has a bad voice, it is the weak link in the band to these ears. There are some great instrumental passages throughout, providing interplay for the guitar, keyboards and bass. The bass guitar really stands out in the mix. The instrumental ?Gong? appears to pay some homage to ?Suppers Ready? in certain sections, after opening with a quirky jazzy signature.

All the ingredients are in the mix if you enjoy the classic 70s symphonic progressive sound. Varying time signatures, complex arrangements, and all the analog keyboards your heart desires can be found here.

Tracklisting:
Introspect (12:40) / Gong (7:01) / The Crossing (6:00) / Days & Changes (8:40) / The Search (11:25

Musicians:
Caronia IV - drums and percussion
Fred Callan - bass, bass pedals, voice
Paul Seal - lead voice, bass pedals, percussion
Tom Doncourt - keyboards, glockenspiel
Rudy Perrone - guitars, voice

Discography:
Stained Glass Stories (1978/1991)

Genre: Progressive Rock

Origin US

Added: October 5th 2003
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Artist website:
Hits: 2221
Language: english