Renaissance – Live at The Union Chapel (Symphonic Rock Records, 2016)
What a beautiful concert! Pioneering symphonic progressive rock band Renaissance videotaped this concert at the stunning Union Chapel in London in 2015. The group is still led by founder Annie Haslam. Her longtime collaborator Michael Dunford passed away in 2012 so Annie Haslam, who has been living in the United States for the past years, has put together a band of outstanding American jazz and session musicians.
Annie Haslam’s five octave vocals still sound particularly beautiful. She has one of the finest voices in progressive rock history. Her live band delivers an exquisite performance. The band features two extremely gifted keyboardists, Rave Tesar on piano and keyboards and Tom Brislin on symphonic keyboards, synths and samplers. Bassist Leo Traversa gets several opportunities to showcase his talent, offering stirring jazz-infused grooves. The band also features Mark Lambert on delightful acoustic guitars and backing vocals; and the creative drumming of Frank Pagano.
This concert features a mix of classic Renaissance fan-favorites along with newer material. It’s truly memorable musicianship. On the final piece, “Ashes Are Burning” the musicians perform a series of solos and improvisations including a knockout synth solo by Tom Brislin.
The DVD is available in NTSC all-region and compatible with PAL DVD players and televisions.
Live at The Union Chapel is a remarkable performance by one of the great masters of symphonic progressive rock. Annie Haslam has found a formidable band and I look forward to more recordings by this talented set of artists.