Friday 2 January 2015

Empire review

http://www.keysandchords.com/cd-review-blog/peter-banks-empire-the-mars-tapes

PETER BANKS EMPIRE: THE MARS TAPES

12/17/2014

Last month, appeared on the label Gonzo Multimedia another gem of unpublished material. Eighteen months after the death of former Yes guitarist Peter Banks super decreases the double CD The Mars Tapes' down on your eardrum.
The recordings date back to 1979. The Mars Studios in LA and have a Peter Banks with female Sidonie Jordan (Sydney Foxx) belong in the group Empire, seeking new paths in the progressive rock landscape.
Far from his previous groups Yes or Flash, but with such a recognizable sound. Not for nothing called the "Architect of Progressive Rock.
The recordings are of acceptable quality (as always with Gonzo) but come from the original master tapes and are not digitally remastered. Here and there some minimal noise gives the charm of that period.
In 'Do you want me' impresses Peter (à la Yes) with his sleight guitar work while Sidonie with her bright (soul-) vocals creates a successful symbiosis of two musical styles from the 70s. In 'Dancing Man' you're on a typical vocal disco song that was instrumental enriched.
Disc 2 turns completely instrumental: Peter Banks and brilliant Paul Delph on keyboards immerse yourself in prog similar to King Crimson, Yes, Wakeman around that period.
To top comet you will also find a wonderful bonus track: 'Sky at Night. Phil Collins, yeah that, on drums and backing vocals, acoustic Peter Banks and his wife Sidonie as a nightingale. Shivers of pure pleasure afflict your senses from the first chords! Just for this ingenious number (heritage!) Walk to the record store or order it directly from Gonzo Multimedia.

Marino Serdons (3½)

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FROM GONZO
The Mars Tapes
2CD - £11.99

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