There are some things you just don’t want to try to put your finger on because you know you will get burned.  Chris Buck’s Progasaurus is one of those things. I knew before playing this disc that the players are all monsters, but as soon as the first cut, “One Squared”, started, I knew I was into something pretty fascinating.  

Raging guitars, double kicks and ever-changing time signatures keep you on the edge through all nine amazing cuts. Along with penning every song, with the exception of Jimi Hendrix’s, “Up From The Sky”, Chris plays intricate bass parts and various ensemble guitar parts. Check out the bass line on “Imprint”. Double-time slapping that is surrounded by thick, rich guitar parts.

One of the many things that sets Progasauras apart from many rock fusion works is the quality of the vocals that Chris provides.  Again, hard to describe.  Passionate and well-delivered performances that make this highly progressive collection of material accessible to listeners not accustomed to such virtuosity. The fourth cut, “Kanines”, is a perfect showcase of Chris’ vocal prowess.  I normally don’t like to compare one singer to another in order to give an idea of their sound and style.  And I won’t do that here either.  You just have to hear him for yourself.

If you are a “metal” fan, you will revel in the cruchiness of “Ende von Tagen”.   The third track, “La Mere en Douleur”, is majestically beautiful with a great, subtle slide guitar solo by Brett Garsed that ends on…a perfect note.  Just a beautiful piece. Some of the “outside”passages throughout this album make me think of John Scofield.  Then there is “The Gator” which offers dating advice and a chance to wear your electric dancing shoes. “Inside/Outside” ends this remarkable CD and toys with a “Yes” riff just a little.

Chris Buck assembled quite a collection of musicians for this project and they have built something extraordinary. Along with Buck are keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Billy Idol, Planet X), Brian Tichy and Virgil Donati take their turns on drums. Virtuoso guitarist Brett Garsed plays on 8 of the 9 cuts.  Guitar legend Allan Holdsworth gives him a break on “Kanines” with unrelenting soloing.

Even the artwork is monstrously cool! This album is great and I really look forward to speaking with Chris and playing it for you all to hear.   Tune In!  —  Lone Lee

This entry was posted on Monday, May 19th, 2008 at 1:49 pm and is filed under Upcoming Shows. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.