According to Wikipedia, progressive rock is defined as a genre by the following:
Prog rock is based on fusions of styles, approaches and genres, involving a continuous move between formalism and eclecticism. Due to its historical reception, the scope of progressive rock is sometimes limited to a stereotype of long solos, long albums, fantasy lyrics, grandiose stage sets and costumes, and an obsessive dedication to technical skill.
My favorite prog rock band, Transatlantic, certainly fits within that definition. While they don’t dress up in costumes or decorate their stages with elaborate sets, they’re known for long, complex songs with inspirational lyrics and memorable melodies. The musicians in Transatlantic are experts in seamlessly blending musical styles and time signatures.
All of Transatlantic’s albums are excellent. Kaleidoscope remains my favorite despite it being my introduction to the band.
Back in 2014, Best Buy was one of the last stores selling audio CDs on shelves. Every time I’d get some extra cash I’d browse the selection and choose something new.
I think it was the colorful album cover that initially caught my eye. I noticed that Kaleidoscope was on Metal Blade Records, which was a label I trusted. The release was also a 2-disk set, meaning I’d get two CDs for the price of one. Without knowing anything about the band, I went ahead and bought the album.
At first I was surprised with what I heard because Metal Blade is known for heavier stuff. I quickly realized this was a prog album. Not to say there aren’t some heavier sections of the album, especially during Into The Blue, but this was not a typical Metal Blade release.
It didn’t take me long to learn that all five songs on the main disk are incredible. The first track, Into The Blue, has become my favorite song of all time.
Into The Blue starts out slow but takes you on an expedition that spans several genres and emotions. At 25 minutes and 13 seconds long, the tune gets me through most of my drive to work. If you like this song, be sure to check out other Transatlantic songs such as All Of The Above, Duel With The Devil, Suite Charlotte Pike, Mystery Train and Swing High, Swing Low.
Transatlantic is:
Neal Morse – keyboard, vocals, guitar
Mike Portnoy – drums, vocals
Roine Stolt – guitar, vocals, keyboards
Pete Trewavas – bass, vocals
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