Retroheads - "Retrospective" Review

Artist/ Band: Retroheads
Title: Retrospective
Label: Unicorn Records
Year of Release: 2004
Artist/ Band Link (click for details/ ordering)

The Review:

I have to be honest with you, when I first received word of a new band called Retroheads, I was amused and didn’t think anything of it. I received the promo copy for Unicorn Records and put it on to take a test spin. WOW I was amazed that this band was so good. They use vintage style instruments , like the Hammond B3, Mellotron, ARP, MiniMoog and Taurus bass pedals, I must confess I have really no clue as to which songs use what instrument, all I know is the end product is something that all symphonic prog lovers will enjoy.

All of the songs are wonderful from beginning to end but my favorites are the opening track Earth Song Starry Night and Urban Flight Delight. They cover every band style without coming off as a clone. The bands I hear are Genesis, Camel, Eloy, Pink Floyd and Yes as well as some bands that bordered on pop like Alan Parsons Project, Ambrosia and modern bands like RPWL, Kevin Gilbert’s more progressive works.

This was a late 2004 release that might have a better impact in 2005 and might get onto some more top favorite lists. I can’t recommend this band enough. If you’re a fan of the symphonic based prog then you must get this CD ASAP!

Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on February 8th, 2005

Tracks:

1. Earthsong

2. Man

3. Judgement Day

4. Dreams

5. World Reveal

6. Starry Night

7. Urban Flight Delight

8. Taking My Time

9. The Fool