GRATTO has just finished work on their debut 3 song EP, "Anakin Tumnus" which invokes some classic progressive rock work inspired by prog-masters such as Rush, Yes, Jethro Tull and King Crimson.
This band's beginning can be traced back to Leger De Main's second release in 1996 when the Rodler brothers (Chris & Brett) were then joined by GRATTO (piano/ keyboards/ vocals). Although GRATTO wrote some music for them, Leger De Main remained as a trio for their second release.
Let's fast forward to 2002 with the release of GRATTO's debut 3 song EP. The music here is both epic in length as well as composition. GRATTO's vocals come across as a mix of both, Dennis de Young (Styx) and Michael Sadler (Saga) respectively. Coincidentally those two were keyboard players as well.
Chris' guitar work is amazing, combining both a technical prowess of his sonic "muscle" aggressive electric guitar work as well as subtle and restraint acoustic guitar work. The rhythm section of Brett & Gary serve as the fury backbone of GRATTO and a fine job they both do here. Brett's drumming is a comparable to most of the drummers in today's progressive rock market. Gary's bass playing here should NOT be over looked as he is as good if not one of the better players of the day.
Chock full of great piano passages as well as soaring guitar work combined with great compositions makes this yet another highly recommended body of work for the year 2002!
Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on September 1st, 2002
