Just the other day, I mentioned to a fellow music nerd that the genre that would surely put me to sleep the fastest would be early 70s Prog Rock from the likes of Genesis and YES. To be fair, I was talking about songs clocking in at over twenty minutes. That friend will be surprised by my review at the bottom of this post.
I mention that because there’s a new band, Arc of Life which features three current members of YES and proudly admits to being a Progressive Rock group. But most of the songs are in the sweet spot 4-6 minute range, and I’ve found the music quite accessible, downright hooky, practically poppy in the case of You Make It Real (listen below – I dig it)
“Three members of the current YES line-up, vocalist Jon Davison bassist/vocalist Billy Sherwood, and drummer Jay Schellen. Completing the lineup is one of the most interesting talents in the “new” progressive rock scene in the US, Dave Kerzner (ex-Sound of Contact) on keyboards and Jimmy Haun (also featured on YES albums in the past) on guitars. Their self-titled debut album is slated for release on February 12, 2021.”
“The concept behind the band is, in keeping with the progressive rock philosophy, to craft creative, challenging, and ear-pleasing music that pushes boundaries. The other idea behind the band is that YES would be a clear point of influence. But while YES is clearly the main influence, a lot of musical comparisons can be made to describe Arc Of Life’s grandiose and epic approach to music. But those descriptions are best left to the listeners to discern for themselves as repeat listens will reveal more layers.”
Here’s another track that has a different vibe. I like it, too.
Here’s my thumbnail impression:
Tracklist:
Life Has A Way– Sounds like Jon Anderson phrasing in the beginning and intermittently. Not saying that’s a bad thing.
Talking With Siri – Some tech-y elements. Is that a touch of Peter Gabriel influence on the vocals? Definitely an aural similarity. Cool guitar solo.
You Make It Real– This is the one I’ll play on repeat for a week. Great hook.
Until Further Notice- More Rock sounding guitars, shortest rack at 3:42
The Magic Of It All– Not my favorite
Just In Sight– See video above. Thumbs Up
I Want To Know You Better – In the vein of You Make It Real – meaning, I dig the pop sensibility.
Locked Down– Starts off like a cover version of Yes’s Leave It from the 80s. And perhaps some Rabin-esque octave-effect guitars? Hmm. 9:45
Therefore We Are– It’s not them, it’s me – another 9 minute song, Yikes
The End Game– This band are soulmates, in some ways, with ASIA. I can hear it in the keys on this track.
Overall – I like this way, way more than I’d have guessed. The musicianship is, obviously, unassailable. I mean, these guys aren’t beginners. I’ll be getting at least several tracks off this when it drops on February 12th. 3 out of 4 Stars
Line-up:
Billy Sherwood – Bass and vocals
Jon Davison – Vocals
Jay Schellen – Drums
Jimmy Haun – Guitars
Dave Kerzner – Keyboards
Thanks, Frontiers Music
