| The
Review |
I’ve talked about solo efforts by keyboardists in the
past, how sometimes they don’t live up to expectations for
one reason or another. Erik Norlander has sidestepped the
many pitfalls and produced Hommage Symphonique which is essentially
a cover disc of some of his favorite progressive rock pieces.
The creepy part for me is that other than a couple of tracks
I could see myself picking those same selections. This is
really a great cross section of styles that work really well
together. ***
Between providing keyboard work for his spouse Lana Lane,
and his band the Rocket Scientists, Norlander is kept very
busy providing technical support for various keyboard companies
and of course his many solo performances. Hommage Symphonique
is his seventh solo release and here he brings together Kelly
Keeling (vocals), Greg Bissonette (drums) and Don Schiff (stick,
guitars, bass) to complete the group. The CD starts off with
the classic Procol Harum selection “Conquistador”, moves on
to Rick Wakeman’s “Sir Lancelot and the Black Night” and then
Yes’ “Turn of the Century” before launching into ELP’s epic
“Pirates.” We’re then treated to Jethro Tull’s “Clasp”, “King
of the Universe” from ELO, “Children of Sanchez” from Chuck
Mangione and “Starless” from King Crimson. It’s a great cross
section of symphonic prog from any standpoint although I’m
sure the Chuck Mangione piece will raise a couple eyebrows.
The music is reproduced faithfully and interestingly Keeling’s
vocals tend to make a very credible stretch closely matching
the styles of Jon Anderson, Greg Lake, Jeff Lynne and John
Wetton. ***
What can you say? The talent is all there and the reproduction
of these eight classic tracks is spot-on. Norlander’s style
has often been compared to Rick Wakeman and Keith Emerson
so here he has chance to prove the point. He remains true
to each piece of music all the while adding just a hint of
his own personal touch. I’m not much for covers, but the performances
here are so good that it was a very satisfying listen. I particularly
loved listening for the details. After all if you’re going
to cover a piece I want to see how close you get and Erik
Norlander never disappoints. This is a great CD to put on
when you may be struggling with what to listen to next. It’ll
bridge the gap with some great musical performances and satisfy
the ear with some familiar classic progressive rock. ***
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