Country: USA
Genre(s): Progressive Rock, Classical
Format: CD, digital
Release date: November 8, 2014
Tracklist:
01. The Arctic Flyer - 03:40
02. Special Feeling - 03:38
03. Sing O'Alleluia - 04:48
04. Night Of Reflection - 03:51
05. Once Long Ago - 05:11
06. Gales Of December - 04:49
07. Moments Of Wonder - 05:12
08. March Of The Metal Soldiers - 04:00
09. The Journey - 03:37
10. Just Believe - 05:57
11. A Simple Gift - 07:43
12. Ode To Eisenach - 03:36
13. Christmas Lullaby - 03:42
Line-up:
Scott Kelly - Keyboards
Steve Ratchen - Bass, Vocals
Tommy Ference - Percussion
Sharon Kelly - Vocals, Flute
Fred Gorhau - Guitar
T.W. Durfy - Guitar
Mary McIntyre - Vocals, Keyboards
Natalia Nierezka - Violin, Vocals
Vincent Jiovino - Vocals
Guy LeMonnier - Vocals
With
Larry Colman (13)
Description/Reviews:
They were born in 2010 as an original act that was inspired by the music of Trans Siberian Orchestra. Their originals were the foundation for their debut Christmas Rock Opera CD “ in 2011 and today, they are still mainly an original holiday act, creating and recomposing music that exposes their Classical and Progressive Rock influences with unique creativity and the extraordinary talents that each member possesses. This new CD released in November of 2014, brings a lot more to the table as the band is now highly polished and refined to the point of near perfection. ... 12 tracks and 2 Bonus tracks set the mood as the music reflects each members distinct personality for the listener as The Wizards perform their magic. Opening with, “Arctic Flyer”, this instrumental sets the mood with an energetic intro that has classic rock sounding roots. “Special Feeling” reaches down deep into the heart with this feeler. Dynamic Vocals! “Sing O' Alleluia” with the intro 'Do You See What I See' kicks it into gear with powerful keys, tight harmonies and hot vocals. “Night of Reflection” is a dual medley of some a well known classic that is expertly composed and performed, Magnificent! “Once Long Ago” incorporates a keyboard segment from one of rock's early classics that explodes into guitars rocking heavy with metal overtones. I love the organ with the Leslie and the marriage of the guitars in the solo. The Metal Gods were smiling here! Leaning toward a dark side is the track “Gales of December” that was inspired by the TV show “The Deadliest Catch” which incorporates bits of 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen'. A Keyboard Monster! “Moments of Wonder” is an absolutely wonderful piece of music. Piercing vocals send chills thru the listener. The next number features guest vocalists Joe Loria and Meg Williams along with percussionist Tom Corea on “March of the Metal Soldiers” that kicks things off in an old-timey swing sort of a way which melds into piercing multi-voice harmonies. WAY COOL! “Journey” is a powerful, banging instrumental with sinister undertones that reminds me of a soundtrack in one of the retro Roman movies or for you rock fans, ELP! “Just Believe” talks about being alone, sadness, dreams that are torn and tattered in a world of confusion. The lyrics will touch one as they identify with them! Very Inspiring! “Toys Will Be Toys” features the signature piano runs that have become well known with holiday rock operas. Love the kids laughter. AWESOME! “A Simple Gift” reflects on the holiday season and all we go through, especially those who are disadvantaged and experience the blues. Their simple gift from the heart is all they have to give and it's the best gift of all! TOUCHING! There are two Bonus tracks complete this wonderful holiday offering. “Ode to Eisenach” featuring Fred Gorhau's acoustic guitar solo has a nice Americana/Folk flair and precise picking that is refreshing. “Christmas Lullaby” by Larry Farese and Larry Colman is a nice mid-tempo tune that reminds me of some of the great crooners like England Dan & John Ford Coley, David Gates from Bread, Paul Davis, or a Robert John. This is a complete collection of music that the discerning listener would appreciate and listen to multiple times. I listened to it three times to get the true feeling of the message and the talent that created it. Folks, this is a MUST LISTEN! I give this CD a hearty, holiday 2 THUMBS UP!!(Review by Michael “Jacobs” McKenna, Steel Notes Magazine)
Media/Samples
6 tracks
Links:
Web page
Proggnosis
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