Cryptic Vision - "Live at ROSfest 2005" Review

Artist/ Band: Cryptic Vision
Title: Live at ROSfest 2005
Label: Self release
Year of Release: 2006
Artist/ Band Link (click for details/ ordering)

The Review:

I had the pleasure of reviewing Cryptic Vision’s debut, Moments of Clarity back when it was released in 2004. Upon hearing that they were playing this years CalProg (Whittier, Ca.) I contacted the band expressing how much I looked forward to seeing them live. I also noticed they had a live album out earlier this year called Live at ROSfest 2005. I asked if they needed it reviewed, especially in time for CalProg and they agreed and I got my copy about a week or so later. They’re also going to be releasing tier second album this year and there’s a preview of one of the songs on this live album called In A World. This song is both featured in both a live and demo version. If this song is any indication of what’s to come then it should hold fans until the new album is released.

As I said in my review of their debut, Cryptic Vision’s music is accessible yet complex progressive rock is very similar sounding to the American Progressive Rock bands both new and classic including Salem Hill (Robbery of A Murder), Kansas and Saga (Generation 13) to name a few. I will also add that Cryptic Vision’s name can be said along side newer bands like Spock’s Beard and Dream Theater as well some British classic bands such as Genesis, ELP and Yes. Make no mistake though, Cryptic Vision has their own identity by taking what those bands did to the next level. The band even paid homage to some of these bands in the song Progledy.

Okay I must admit I was a bit weary of this album because I believe a live recording showcases a pinnacle in the band’s career and Cryptic Vision is at the start of theirs. Well that weary feeling soon faded away upon listening to this live album. While not at a pinnacle, this documents show the band sounds in a live setting, especially to some critics that might think of the band as a studio wonder. This is the band’s true element, they stretch and expand their studio tracks with ease and sound like a seasoned touring band even though this is one document is from their first tour. This is album is very recommended to fans of the afore mentioned fans as well as fans of Cryptic Vision’s debut release. Simply put, this is a great band destined for ever greater things. I can’t wait for their set at CalProg!

Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on May 30th, 2006

Tracks:

1. Introspective

2. Contemplation (excerpt)

3. Grand Design

4. In A World

5. Ascension

6. Keyboard solo

7. Shock Value

8. The Progledy

9. In A World (demo)

Reviewed Discography

Here are other reviews by this artist at ProgNaut.com.

"Moments of Clarity" 2004
"Live at ROSfest 2005" 2006