176 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-02-09 11:47:16)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Camel    "Rhayader Goes to Town"    Los Angeles, 1997

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIEXlFi3lP8

This week's selection is a bit of a cross-over between Prog and Jazz Fusion. There's some clever interplay between keyboardist Foss Patterson and guitarist / flutist Andy Latimer. The bass arrangement (Colin Bass) during the opening flute section always makes me smile ... so smooth. This concert was from their "Coming of Age" DVD, and was the last concert filmed before Latimer became very sick with cancer. There was a hiatus of several years before he could return to performing, but they're still going strong and producing terrific music.

http://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/50/cover_4524203122005.jpeg

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Pink Floyd    "Us and Them"    London, 1994

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deU_uwlNpOo

This past Wednesday, many of us paid tribute to those who fell in war on our behalf (Veteran's Day, USA  /  Remembrance Day, Canada), and to also express appreciation to the living women and men of our armed forces. Wars are usually started by those seeking to impose their beliefs on others by force, or to seize what isn't rightfully theirs. That's when others need to step up, to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Unfortunately, many of us in the general public are often unaware of the true core issues, which is sad. This in no wise minimizes my own admiration for the bravery shown by our military and law-enforcement personnel ... they are heroes in every respect.

"Us and Them" is one of many Pink Floyd songs which speaks of such things. In simple yet profound terms, this beautiful piece of music is a reminder that those who wield power aren't always being honourable, and those of us who follow them have the right to think for ourselves. 'Nuff said.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41%2BpfGsDs4L.jpg

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Mostly Autumn    "Tonight"    Zaterdag, Netherlands, 2012

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRq3UT3MmY4

With the departure of lead vocalist Heather Findlay in 2010, backing vocalist Olivia Sparnenn stepped into the lead role. As this piece shows, Olivia's vocal ability is first-rate, and she later married lead guitarist Bryan Josh in 2013. I'd like to hear Sparnenn attempt Pink Floyd's "Great Gig in the Sky". There's not many that can pull it off, but she'd have a bonafide crack at it IMHO. These guys bring an element of "gentle power" to the Prog Rock genre, and it's easy to see why they're still going strong since starting in 1995.

http://www.rockcinema.eu/resources/Mostly_Autumn_-_2012_Zoetermeer_15.9.2012.jpg

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Steven Wilson    "The Raven that Refused to Sing"    Deutschland, 2013

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZtZIUgY0IM

Although Porcupine Tree hasn't formally announced dissolution, they haven't released an album nor toured since 2011, with their last work being "The Incident". Frontman Wilson has been pursuing his solo work, and has released several albums since. In September of this year, he received 3 awards in London at the Progressive Music Awards, including Album of the Year for "Hand. Cannot. Erase." His imagination and sound creativity continue to amaze audiences, and this beautiful / haunting work reminds me of the poetry of Edgar Allen Poe, and is the title track from his 2013 album.

http://images.popmatters.com/news_art/s/steven-wilson_the-raven.jpg

180 (edited by Tenement Funster 2015-12-05 13:11:01)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Yes    "South Side of the Sky"    Los Angeles, 2004

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fr91HqG0UOw

Here's another clip from the "Yes Acoustic" DVD, a short concert that was televised to a number of theatre audiences across the US in 2004. They've done some large-than-life versions of this piece (and others) in various concerts, and it's always interesting to see how a lot of this material works in a more organic format. Pianist Rick Wakeman demonstrates his amazing touch as the main feature of this song ... hope y'all enjoy it.

http://cdn.discogs.com/YjUlalfRQsJQKuJUoPGVbSd6ryA=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb()/discogs-images/R-4968746-1380902929-5141.jpeg.jpg

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Jethro Tull   "No Lullaby"    New York, 1978

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xx-okzNKOz0

This was perhaps my favorite era for Jethro Tull, and the lads really did put on a great show and enjoyed themselves in the process. The energy and enthusiasm for what they were doing comes across loud and clear. It's a great song, and the flute solo at the end was completely unique to Tull ... enjoy it.

http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/2940014701310_p0_v1_s192x300.jpg http://www.gridclub.com/subscribers/info/fact_gadget_2009/images/qa1c04f56.jpg

182 (edited by Strummerboy Bill 2015-12-12 13:47:46)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

YES! I love this one, with fine work all around by the boys - with some especially fine work from the rhythm section!

I agree that the band seems to be having great fun with this tune, as it gives every member of the band their chance to shine as is evidenced by the smiles, and - again - that fine ensemble and solo work.

Thanks for adding the protrait(s) of Master Tull and the seed drill, TF, though I did have to take a second look at that finger on his right hand. wink

Excellent choice, my friend, and thoroughly enjoyable!

Bill

Epiphone Les Paul Studio
Fender GDO300 Orchestral - a gift from Amy & Jim
Rogue Beatle Bass
Journal: www.wheretobud.blogspot. com

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Glad you liked it, Bill ... thanks!

You referred to Ian's deformed pinky on his right hand, which must have made learning the flute interesting. By some curious twist of fate, I dislocated the same finger playing basketball in the mid-80's, and it's almost identically shaped to Ian's now. Another tidbit for the observant is that Ian is wearing his clan's tartan in this performance:

http://highlandline.com/item_images/_crest-anderson.gif

184 (edited by Tenement Funster 2015-12-19 11:06:11)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Liquid Tension Experiment    "Biaxident"    California, 2008

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3XCcSHwjns

Every so often, a "dream team" group of musicians will combine their talents for a project like this, and produce compositions which are decidedly different than other works they've been involved with. Featured in LTE's concert are 4 of the very best at their respective instruments:

Guitar  -  John Petrucci (Dream Theatre, Explorers Club, G3, Nightmare Cinema, etc.)
Drums  -  Mike Portnoy (Dream Theatre, Transatlantic, Neal Morse Band, OSI, Twisted Sister, etc.)
Bass  -  Tony Levin (King Crimson, Peter Gabriel, Stick Men, Upper Extremities, Alice Cooper, etc.)
Keys  -  Jordan Rudess (Dream Theatre, Dixie Dregs, David Bowie, Jupiter, Neal Morse, etc.)

The individual skill of each guy is incredible; and the whole is even greater than the sum of the parts. Enjoy!

http://www.covershut.com/back_covers/Liquid-Tension-Experiment-LTE-Live-2008-Back-Cover-26568.jpg

185 (edited by Tenement Funster 2015-12-26 23:28:12)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Karnataka    "Tide to Fall"    Bury, England, 2012

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpNdYdojljw

If anyone has seen the production "Riverdance", or Michael Flatley's "Feet of Flames", you'll instantly recognize the lovely Hayley Griffiths at lead vocals. Formed in 1997, the only original member is bassist Ian Jones. This performance is from their 2012 DVD "New Light". The entire DVD is well-shot, and the group is tight and energetic throughout.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71UO4KiIAjL._SY445_.jpg

186 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-01-30 23:38:01)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Mostly Autumn    "Wild Eyed Skies"   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lRsZRfEEOw

Here's a beautiful track from Mostly Autumn's two-disc CD "The Ghost Moon Orchestra" (2012). The original album track had Troy Donockley playing the opening on the Uilleann Pipes, but in his absence guitarist Bryan Josh does an abbreviated bit on guitar, with some cool effects on his Strat. Josh's style reminds me a lot of David Gilmour. Vocalists Olivia Sparnenn and Anne-Marie Helder really shine. I'm not sure where this tour footage was shot.

http://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/251/cover_542318182012_r.jpg

187 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-01-08 22:01:06)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Jethro Tull    "Velvet Green"    London, 1977

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2snYD_lRAGk

As Ian hints at the outset, this is a song with some unusual timing and arranging, and represents the group "firing on all cylinders" with what I consider to be the best lineup the group has had. This is another selection from their 1977 album "Songs From the Wood", and represents a more acoustic side of their music, with a combination of Celtic and Medieval ideas they had embraced during the 70's. Neat to see guitarist Martin Barre playing the glockenspiel in this one.

http://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_250/MI0001/774/MI0001774361.jpg?partner=allrovi.com

A day early this week ... traveling tomorrow.

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

A few observations:

1. As a drummer, I agree, those are some horrendous time sigs, TF! Doubt very seriously that I could have followed the songs.

2. Watching Ian play (which I have not done often enough, I admit), I am stupefied at the speed at which his chording fingers fly!

3. That is water he's drinking out of that bottle, isn't it? I always thought of Tull as a band with its head in the right place, but back in those days, who knew who did what?

Beautiful tune. Loved it and thanks!

Bill

Epiphone Les Paul Studio
Fender GDO300 Orchestral - a gift from Amy & Jim
Rogue Beatle Bass
Journal: www.wheretobud.blogspot. com

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Glad you liked it, Bill ...

I can't say for sure what's in the bottle, but have (like you) heard him make many statements against the abuse of alcohol & drugs over the years. With Ian, one never knows for sure what is "theatricality" and what isn't ... he's a master showman, so anything's possible. One thing's for sure, the cigarette smoking hasn't done his voice any good. I doubt he'd even have little more than a single octave vocal-range these days.

190 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-01-16 17:08:07)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Robert Reed    "Sanctuary - Part I"    2014, Home Studio, Unknown Location

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8wWGAy5W4c

Here's an interesting rendition of a piece by Mike Oldfield (of "Tubular Bells" fame) by the multi-talented Robert Reed. This is taking the idea of looping to a whole new level, as he layers not only sound, but video of himself eventually comprising a 9-piece band. Aside of that engaging curiosity, it's a really decent piece of music as well. "Sanctuary" is his tribute to Oldfield, and he recorded and filmed this at his home studio. Hope y'all enjoy it.

https://www.burningshed.com/covers/large4516.jpg

191 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-01-23 12:18:29)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Unitopia    "The Great Reward"    Netherlands, 2010

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZV0vvTwQ9A

I read something interesting recently, concerning the mortality of all living things. It is perhaps uniquely human that we are the only living things that live with the constant awareness of that mortality. It affects a great deal of what we do and how we think, that other creatures don't habitually deal with. Interesting perspective! This beautiful song speaks of hope, another unique aspect of humanity that helps us carry the load of our own mortality. Once in a while I'm told that I think too much. But for those of you familiar with the Myers-Briggs personality profiles, I'm an INFJ so I can't help it. smile

The song itself is very good, and someone has commented that Unitopia is one of Australia's best musical exports in a good while. Singer Mark Tueack is in fine voice, and the slide solo at the end by guitarist Matt Williams is just gorgeous.

http://nsa34.casimages.com/img/2014/08/16/140816123937840612.jpg

192 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-01-30 16:11:50)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Steven Wilson    "The Watchmaker"    Neu Isenberg, Germany, 2013

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Hp6lYx4Fvw

Here's another selection from Wilson's 2013 DVD, filmed in Germany. I find much of it reminiscent of the 1970 Genesis album "Trespass". It has a loose spontaneity about it, coupled with a very tight performance ... an elusive balance. The fictitious story behind the song is about a meticulous watchmaker, who eventually murders his wife. The song goes from an airy beauty at the start, into some very dark sonic arrangement at the end. Edgar Allen Poe would love this! The music conveys the mood of the story better than any words could.

Pierce Brosnan plays a sadistic killer nick-named "The Watchmaker" in last year's film "Survivor", and this song fits his character with horrific accuracy:

http://i0.wp.com/bitcast-a-sm.bitgravity.com/slashfilm/wp/wp-content/images/survivor-trailer.jpg?resize=700%2C291

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

David Gilmour    "Astronomy Domine"    Abbey Road,  2006

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR20k5uMnl0

Pink Floyd's 1969 album UmmaGumma was the first prog album I ever heard. I was 12 years old, and immediately entranced. I had just started playing guitar a few years before, and had basically just learned some 3-chord stuff that my father taught me. It was fine, I wanted something a bit more complex and imaginative. Although this song was originally written and performed by Syd Barrett (The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, 1967) it was the Gilmour version of Astronomy Domine that started my lifelong love affair with Prog Rock. Most will remember the alternating mirror images on the album cover.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81nCeEG4K8L._SL1500_.jpg

194 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-02-13 10:38:00)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Gentle Giant    "On Reflection"    London, 1978

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pryVmeklmQ

Haven't had any GG in the mix for a while, so here's another bit of an oddity from their album "Free Hand". These guys are all mutli-talented and extremely competent with the various instruments they play. They were certainly pushing the creative envelope in the 70's, even for a Prog band. The album cover featured a cameo appearance by "Thing" from the Addam's Family ... or at least it looks a lot like he / she / it.

http://creamusic.net/uploads/posts/2012-12/1354606351_1340972338_gentle-giant-free-hand.jpeg

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

http://www.desismileys.com/smileys/desismileys_4547.gif

__________________________________
[b]Today Is Only Yesterdays Tomorrow[/b]

196 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-02-20 11:36:51)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Genesis (Steve Hackett)    "Firth of Fifth"    London, 2013

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye88TsHrH

This one's from the 1973 album "Selling England by the Pound". The end features an extended guitar solo by Hackett, where he again demonstrates the unique features of his Fernandes guitar's sustainer system. He really makes it sing ... enjoy!

http://www.kompaktkiste.de/cover/genesis/206919lp1.jpg

197 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-02-27 15:07:35)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Pink Floyd    "Mother"    London, 1990

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73UMWoXRbjg

Here's an oldie from PF's 1979 album "The Wall". This performance has a refreshing raw edge to it, and Gilmour's solo parts are penetrating. Roger's cynicism and anti-authority rhetoric continued to cascade, and there's so much hatred seething from this album, it's almost hard to listen to at times. The song has a few awkward time signatures (such as 5/8 and 9/8) which Nick Mason found hard to drum. The album version features session drummer Jeff Porcaro behind the kit, but Nick eventually got it all squared away for performance purposes. All said and done, it's still a brilliant musical achievement.

http://images.popmatters.com/news_art/p/pink-floyd-the-wall-art.jpg

198 (edited by Tenement Funster 2016-03-05 02:04:22)

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Yes    "Starship Trooper"    Amsterdam, 2003

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3AQXtqY0Es

From their third studio album (The Yes Album), this 1971 record was the debut appearance of guitarist Steve Howe with the group. Steve brought a level of ability that really launched Yes into the success they became, which was further augmented when keyboardist Rick Wakeman joined them following year. It's too bad drummer Bill Bruford left in 1972, as it's generally agreed that he was a greater talent than his replacement Alan White.

This version of the song is performed over 30 years since it's release, and shows its enduring quality as evidenced by the audience's response. The original album cover itself has two oddities, with (1) being the mannequin head stuck in at the last moment for no known reason, and (2) keyboardist Tony Kaye with his foot in a cast, which apparently the result of a car accident.

http://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_400/MI0001/553/MI0001553765.jpg?partner=allrovi.com

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Yes!!!

Epiphone Les Paul Studio
Fender GDO300 Orchestral - a gift from Amy & Jim
Rogue Beatle Bass
Journal: www.wheretobud.blogspot. com

Re: Prog Rock Wednesdays

Thanks Tf for the history of one of the most important groups in rock history. I would not equate them with pink Floyd, but those  lyrics put. Them in a class all their own .

Thanks for Starship Trooper. My
friend!

Bill

Epiphone Les Paul Studio
Fender GDO300 Orchestral - a gift from Amy & Jim
Rogue Beatle Bass
Journal: www.wheretobud.blogspot. com