Time and a Word is the second album by progressive rock band Yes, released in mid-1970 in the UK and November 1970 in the US. This was the last Yes album to feature the group's original line-up, as Peter Banks was fired before the album's release.With the ambitious decision to use string arrangements on most of the album's songs, Peter's role as a guitarist was diminished. Tensions within the band increased, and just after the album's recording was completed in early 1970, Peter was asked to leave, which he reluctantly did. Steve Howe would join the line-up that March, replacing Banks. The album also includes two songs Jon Anderson wrote with David Foster[1], a former band mate in The Warriors. The US and UK releases had different album artwork; the UK version had black-and-white drawing of a nude woman (pictured), but this was deemed inappropriate in the US, so the cover there showed a picture of the band, with new member Steve Howe (who, ironically, does not play on the album). The back cover of both versions features photographs of the band members, including Peter Banks.Time and a Word's use of heavy strings seemed intrusive to some critics, and while the album was received in a lukewarm fashion upon its release (UK #45, Yes' first chart entry at home), it is more warmly remembered today.With the acquisition of Steve Howe, the band would start to compose, rehearse, and record the music for The Yes Album over the summer and autumn of 1970. The album, released the following spring, would finally earn the band their success. In effect, Time and a Word marks the end of Yes's formative, yet musically significant, period.

Yes Discography - 1960s/70s Yes Albums & Yes CDs

1969 Yes Atlantic
1970 Time and a Word Atlantic
1971 The Yes Album Atlantic
1972 Fragile Atlantic
1972 Close to the Edge Wea
1974 Tales from Topographic Oceans Wea
1974 Relayer Atlantic
1977 Going for the One Atlantic
1978 Tormato Atlantic

Yes Discography - 1980s/90s/00s Yes Albums & Yes CDs

1980 Drama Atlantic
1983 90125 Japanese
1987 Big Generator East West
1989 Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe
1991 Union Arista
1994 Talk Victory Music
1997 Open Your Eyes Beyond
1999 The Ladder Import
2001 Magnification Rhino
2004 (Re)Union BMG

Porcupine Tree are incredibly hard to describe because their music doesn't fit into any one genre. I like the description on the back of the album "Signify" (one of my all time favorites). It says "Porcupine Tree have managed to defy genres and blend together numerous ambient, rock and avant-garde styles to create a musical landscape that is both refreshing and compulsively seductive". The great post-GONG revival which gave birth to OZRIC TENTACLES now brings us Porcupine Tree. The hypnotic rhythms, spacy synthesizers, glissando guitar and crazy voices which made the style successful are all contained here.

The band started as a solo project of singer-songwriter-guitarist Steve Wilson who, back in the early nineties, released a series of increasingly spaced-out ambient excursions. PT is one of the most innovative bands in prog today combining intense musicianship, unconventional composition and superb studio production. They are unquestionably one of the UK's most inspired and inventive rock groups.

The bands 4th studio album from '96. "Signify" saw Porcupine Tree truly gell as a studio band producing a blend of psychedelia, heavy rock, melancholic pop, kraut rock, and wild experimentation that brought the best out of each band member. Their latest two albums ("Stupid Dream" and "Lightbulb Sun") move the band further away from their influences and into their own catagory, by which other bands eventually will be compared. But if you are a fan of progressive, thoughtful, briliantly executed and flawlessly produced music, you will do no better than PT.

PORCUPINE TREE's eighth studio album, "Deadwing", was released in March 2005 by Lava Records / Warner Music. Less rock-oriented than the previous album "In Absentia", "Deadwing" is partially based on a "surreal ghost story" screenplay written by Steven and sometime PORCUPINE TREE / NO-MAN art collaborator Mike Bennion. The 60-minute, nine-track album contains material varying from short airplay-friendly songs such as 'Shallow' to lengthier pieces like the 10-minute-plus 'Arriving Somewhere But Not Here'. Most of the music was written by Steven but the album features the largest amount of full-band compositions since "Signify" in 1997. The album also features guest appearances by Adrian Belew (KING CRIMSON) and Mikael Åkerfeldt (OPETH).

EVERGREY biography is a progressive metal band from Sweden. Kings of morose metal they have set themselves apart by finding a sound that is distinctly their own. But Evergrey's sound and style is what I would call dark progressive metal. Or even disturbed progressive metal might fit. After all, the music is clearly haunted by anguish and other dark emotions. The song writing is excellent, the band is polished and the style dark progressive metal is engaging

1998	3.54	The Dark Discovery	Studio Album
1999	4.00	Solitude + Dominance + Tragedy	Studio Album
2001	4.24	In Search Of Truth	Studio Album
2003	4.03	Recreation Day	Studio Album
2004	4.36	The Inner Circle	Studio Album
2005	4.13	A Night To Remember (Live)	Live
2005	4.42	A Night to Remember - Live 2004 (DVD)	DVD / Video
2006	3.32	Monday Morning Apocalypse Studio Album

The Flower Kings, Swedish Progressive group led by one of the most experienced members of the scene Roine Stolt, have released a new album, titled - Paradox Hotel. This is yet another 2CD the group has to offer its fans and it contains yet another "epic" over 20 minutes in length. This can't go wront, right? Wrong. Paradox Hotel is a fine a example of how one should not judge a book by its cover(speaking about the cover literally, that's some terrible cover art!) - being overlong and containing "epic" tracks doesn't make the album any better than it is. On the countrary, it seems that being too long makes it even more incoherent, which was the case with another The Flower Kings album I used to have on my hands - Unfold The Future, which I found to be even more disastrous.

The album starts with the short sample Check In, which contains nothing interesting at least in the musical sense. Monsters And Men is next and, what do you know, it's the longest track on this album! All "epic" tracks, accept it or not, always make the listener expect something earth-shattering and that's why they tend to disappoint us a lot - sometimes due to the expectations themselves, at other times it is the fault of the songwriters. I'm afraid the latter is the case here, as the songwriting of this "piece" is inspiring and dull. I had trouble finishing the rotten experience of trying to listen to this music, simply because after this track I did not want to continue wasting my time. I do not doubt the technical prowess of the musicians, however, from my point of view, songwriting is something they seem to have abandoned since Space Revolver and it definitely needs a lot of work for future releases. If you've heard any other TFK album, you'll know where my main complaint comes from - no direction! The direction is either completely missing here, as the music goes absolutely nowhere, or the main point is exactly showing off technical skill and as many moods as possible. Roine Stolt sings here. He has a hearty voice, which I happen to like, however, I find it insincere on this record(an ability I've developed by listening to a lot of music, I suppose)and his singing and the lyrics that are written quite well simply can't save the album and make it worthwhile - much like the group's personal abilities.

In all but one TFK album I've heard so far, I've noticed that tracks and parts of tracks can be divided on a groups: ones that seem to pay homage to the 70's legends (Genesis, Gentle Giant, Yes, King Crimson, you name 'em), often all at once at the same time, some bizarre sounding songs that wouldn't be out of place on a contemporary adult radio station, and ones of the group's distinct style that is also derivative and drives me crazy with its lack of direction. After the epic track described above, the other tracks seem to follow that pattern as well. I am glad to mention, however, that the second part of the first CD, from Pioneers Of Aviation to Selfconsuming Fire is more listenable than the previous tracks, which made me proud that I finally made it through the madness to hear what perhaps is the best side of the group. Many of the tracks here either contain some nice melodies without going to nowhere or have a remarkable atmosphere, something I never associated TFK's music with. One thing I feel I should complain about though is that there is some giggling in a couple of tracks here, which is really out of place and does not suit the mood of the corresponding composition at all. The second disc does not hold up to my expectations either and makes me regret spending my time with this release.

To sum up my thoughts: in most cases, this is derivative, incoherent, chaotic music with a lack of direction, without the songwriting to back up it being overlong. This is exactly what I hate in TFK's sound and the exact qualities I try to avoid in my prog diet. Perhaps, people are referring to the TFK-styled groups when they form a prejudiced opinion against the type of music this site covers so deeply? I wouldn't be surprised actually. Despite some pleasant moments being included, I have to say that I would rather listen to three other albums that are actually innovative and interesting to listen to, instead of spending more than two hours trying to digest this. Time is money!

My final verdict will be more sober though and should not frighten anyone: this is a typical TFK album in every sense of the word and has some elements the group, to my knowledge, has yet implemented into their music, so if you are a fan of the musicians, I don't see why you would avoid it. However, to those unfamiliar with the group yet or already with negative impressions of the group's style: remember, there is more to prog than a single group and what is God's gift to mankind may very well be a disaster to another. Do not form your opinion on the whole genre, style or even era of music based on just one release - a mistake I once had the misfortune to make.

Discography

• Paradox Hotel   (2006)
  
  
• Adam & Eve   (2004)
  
  
• Meet The Flower Kings - Limited Edition 2CD/2DVD   (2003)
  
  
• Meet The Flower Kings - 2DVD   (2003)
  
  
• Meet The Flower Kings - 2CD   (2003)
  
  
• Unfold The Future   (2002)
  
  
• Unfold The Future - Limited Edition   (2002)
  
  
• The Rainmaker   (2001)
  
  
• The Rainmaker - Limited Edition   (2001)
  
  
• Space Revolver   (2000)
  
  
• Space Revolver - Digipack   (2000)
  
  
• Space Revolver - Japanese Edition   (2000)
  
  
• Alive On Planet Earth   (2000)
  
  
• Flower Power   (1999)
  
  
• Stardust We Are   (1997)
  
  
• Retropolis   (1996)
  
  
• Back In The World Of Adventures   (1995)
  
  
• The Flower King   (1994, Artwork Edition)
  
• 

Iron Maiden

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  Iron Maiden's New Album Is A Matter Of Life And Death
  Iron Maiden is one of the most successful and influential heavy metal bands with worldwide album sales of more than 65 million. They enhanced the dual-guitar sound pioneered by Judas Priest in the 70's and their music has influenced dozens of famous bands, most notably Metallica and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
  
  The story began in East London in 1975 when young musician Steve Harris, frustrated by the lack of songwriting opportunities at Gypsy's Kiss and Smiler, decided to create his own band. Named Iron Maiden after a medieval torture instrument, the band suffered a rocky start due to numerous lineup changes and lack of support at a time when punk music flourished. However, Steve's unparalleled determination to succeed and passion for rock music managed to keep the band alive until the punk era began to fade in the late 70's.
  
  Rising Force
  By that time Iron Maiden began to establish themselves in the East End, mainly by playing every week at the Ruskin Arms. After three years of local gigs, Steve decided it was time for the band to move forwards and record their music. On New Year's Eve 1978 with the lineup of Steve Harris on bass guitar, Doug Sampson on drums, Paul Di' Anno on vocals and Dave Murray on guitar, the band recorded "The Soundhouse Tapes'. Despite consisting of just four songs, "Iron Maiden", "Prowler", "Strange World" and "Invasion", they handed a copy to famous rock DJ Neal Kay who held a weekly heavy metal night at the Soundhouse in North-West London.
  
  Neal's mission was to give exposure to new bands and was receiving tapes from most young rock bands in London at the time. When he did eventually hear "The Soundhouse Tapes', he was impressed and later described it as "the most impressive demo I'd ever had handed to me". It instantly became a hit with the punters and "Prowler" topped Neal's top 20 request list that was published in the music press.
  
  Eventually 5,000 copies of "The Soundhouse Tapes" were issued and sold immediately. The demo is now considered to be one of the most famous and sought-after musical pieces in rock history. The final pieces of the Maiden puzzle were assembled with an inspiring gig at the prestigious Marquee club organized by their newly recruited manager Rod Smallwood, the addition of guitarist Dennis Stratton, the replacement of Doug Sampson with Clive Burr and the subsequent signing of a long-term contract with EMI.
  
  Di' Anno Era
  The band's debut album "Iron Maiden" was released in 1980 and was hailed as the most exiting sound of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal movement that also featured the likes of Saxon and Def Leppard. It proved a hugely influential album that inspired generations of rock musicians. The album's cover of on-stage mascot Eddie was designed by the band's artist Derek Riggs, a relationship that lasts until today. The band also went on to open for Kiss in their 1980 Unmasked Tour as well as a few dates for Judas Priest.
  
  Following the tour, Stratton was fired because his style of tight guitar play did not match the smooth play of Murray. Consequently he was replaced by Murray's childhood friend Adrian Smith who had his own band at the time, Urchin. The result was the formation of the most legendary rock guitar duo other than that of K K Downing and Glenn Tipton of Judas Priest!
  
  Maiden's second album named "Killers" was released in 1981, mostly consisting of songs that were considered a surplus for "Iron Maiden". The subsequent 125 gig tour was highly successful, however, Di' Anno enjoyed a rock n' roll lifestyle that affected his performances and consequently mutually agreed to depart. His replacement was Samson vocalist and Maiden fan Bruce Dickinson. His distinctive voice, ability to rule the crowds and songwriting abilities caught Steve Harris' attention when Samson played in Reading Festival 1981.
  
  Golden Years
  Dickinson's debut with Maiden was an album that needs no introduction. Propelled by Steve Harris' ingenious songwriting and galloping bass, Clive Burr's thundering drums, Bruce Dickinson's operatic vocals and Dave Murray's and Adrian Smith's blistering guitars, world domination was inevitable. 1982's "The Number Of The Beast' featured such classics as "Run To The Hills', "The Number Of The Beast', "Children Of The Damned' and "Hallowed Be Thy Name" and is now considered the definitive heavy metal album.
  
  At the end of the Beast Tour there was another casualty. Clive's fading health paved the way for Trust drummer Nicko McBrain to complete the classic Maiden lineup that most fans relate to. His unique single bass drum/pedal style of playing formed an unrivaled rhythm section with Steve. Under the classic lineup Maiden dominated the Heavy Metal world of the 80's with "Piece Of Mind' (1983), "Powerslave' (1984), "Live After Death" (1985), "Somewhere In Time" (1986) and "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son' (1988). In the process, they achieved multi-platinum status, played to millions of fans and headlined all the major festivals including Dortmund and Donington.
  
  However, the suicidal extent of touring (300 gigs in 363 days for "Powerslave" tour) eventually took its toll on Adrian who departed in 1990 to follow a solo career. Tensions were also high between Bruce and the rest of the band and hence he took some time off to record his solo album "Tattooed Millionaire' as well as to write the book "The Adventures Of Lord Iffy Boatrace'. Adrian's replacement was former Ian Gillan guitarist Janick Gers who also worked with Bruce on "Tattooed Millionaire".
  
  The next albums came in with "No Prayer For The Dying" (1990), featuring the number 1 single "Bring Your Daughter To The Slaughter', and the chart topping "Fear Of The Dark" (1992). However, at the peak of Maiden's career Bruce decided to leave in order to concentrate on his solo work. This left the music world in shock and for the first time Maiden's prospects were bleak. To keep up with the fans' hunger for albums while auditions for a new singer took place, in 1993 the band released three live albums with "A Real Dead One', "A Real Live One" and "Live At Donington".
  
  Unsettled Times
  In December 1993 Wolfsbane front man Blaze Bayley officially became part of Iron Maiden and nearly two years later in 1995 the band released "The X Factor". Despite the fact that the album consisted of some powerful Bailey vocals, it was much criticized for its dark and melancholic songs, reflecting the fact that principal songwriter Steve Harris was going through personal problems with the breakup of his marriage and death of his father. Nonetheless, Maiden went on a 139 gig world tour and Bailey received a great reception from the fans. After the tour, the band released their first compilation album "The Best Of The Beast" (1996) that included a great live performance of "Afraid To Shoot Strangers" with Blaze on vocals.
  
  With confidence recovered, Maiden went on to release "Virtual XI" in 1998. With few notable tracks and extensive use of synthesizers, for the first time a Maiden album failed to reach the million mark in worldwide sales and is generally considered the lowest point in the band's career to date. The situation worsened when Bailey got bronchitis and several dates of the US leg of the tour had to be cancelled. Inevitably, Steve Harris and Rod Smallwood decided to let him go.
  
  

• 
  Reunion And Resurrection
  With failing album sales, this was a make or brake point for Iron Maiden's career. Luckily, the band shocked the music world when they announced that both Bruce Dickinson and Adrian Smith were returning to reform the classic 80's lineup plus Janick Gers. With a six-man lineup in place, the band went on a hugely successful reunion tour and this was followed by the release of "Brave New World' in 2000. This marked the beginning of a more progressive period with the band exploring new musical grounds with the three guitar lineup. Easily the best album since 1988's "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son", the band gained new fans and concluded the world tour with a 250,000 strong crwowd show at the famous Rock In Rio festival, with the live album and DVD released in 2001.
  
  The band continued to explore progressive metal with 2003's "Dance Of Death" that went platinum in several countries and, to mark the 25th anniversary of the release of their first album, released "The Early Days' DVD (2004) that concentrates on the 1980-1983 era. The accompanied tour was yet another success and following the 55,000 people show at the Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg that was broadcasted live in Scandinavia (first live broadcast since Live Aid in 1985), Iron Maiden managed an unthinkable nine entries in Sweden's Top 10 Charts!
  
  Maiden's last actions for 2005 were a special charity gig at Hammersmith Apollo in London in support to the Clive Burr Multiple Sclerosis Trust Fund, a trust set up in 2002 to support their ex-drummer Clive Burr (1980-1982) and other people who suffer from MS and the release of "Death On The Road", a double live album recorded during the "Dance Of Death" European Tour.

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