Echolyn (self-release, 2012)
Echolyn is the self-titled new album by Echolyn, one of the most cherished American progressive rock bands. It’s an indie release, produced and marketed by the band. The CD version comes in a two-disc set.
As other top tier prog bands, Echolyn has carved its niche with a sound of its own, despite the obvious influences from Genesis, Yes, and Gentle Giant. Unlike other acts who try desperately to sound very British, Echolyn’s lead vocalist Ray Weston doesn’t shy away from American-style rock vocals. His skillful technique allows him to be soft and gentle like peter Gabriel and vibrant as a 90s alternative rock singer.
Although the majority of the album is vocal driven, the band’s instrumentalists are able to present their talent in various occasions. Highlights on Disc 1 include the bluesy ‘Locust To Bethlehem’ with its attention-grabbing baritone saxophone, a real string section and memorable sing along parts; and the last cut, ‘Some Memorial’ which is more vibrant, with a climactic build featuring fine keyboard, guitar and vocal work.
The high points on Disc 2 are the laid-back blues ‘Past Gravity’ with beautiful strings, dazzling bass lines and more memorable sing along lines; the solid progressive rock piece ‘When Sunday Spills’ that features outstanding slide guitar work that would make Steve Howe proud, more excellent vocals, piano and bass lines with an overall fabulous epic feel. The album ends with the delightful ‘The Cardinal And I,’ a piece that combines powerful instrumental sections showcasing the synthesizers, bass and guitar with impressive vocal parts.
The line-up includes Ray Weston on lead & backing vocals and sometimes bass; Paul Ramsey on drums, percussion, backing vocals; Tom Hyatt on bass, backing vocals; Brett Kull on guitars, lead & backing vocals; and Chris Buzby on keyboards, backing vocals.
Guests featured: Nina Beate on violin; Kaveh Saidi on violin; Lori Saidi on viola; Rajli Bicolli on cello; Mark Gallagher on baritone saxophone; and Jacque Varsalona on backing vocals
The Echolyn album shows that the veteran progressive rock is in splendid shape, with some pieces that are destined to be future band classics. Echolyn is certainly one of the best releases of 2012.
Buy Echolyn