TEE "The Earth Explorer"

TEE is a five piece flute front progressive rock band from Tokyo, Japan. Their so-called 'European' sound is unique considering their far-east origin. The imaginative tunes with complex ensembles and rhythms will definitely catch the attention of prog lovers all over the world. Their sound will remind you bands like Camel, King Crimson, Asia Minor or even Frank Zappa on some parts. The band was formed in 2004 when... more

Kevin BARTLETT

You may not know his name but you have definitely heard his music more than once or twice in your life. Maybe on HBO, or on MTV, or on VH1, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel. Doesn't ring the bell? How about American Idol Rewind, or Dr. 90210? We had interviewed Kevin Bartlett a couple of years ago when his second solo album GLOW IN THE DARK was released. Bartlett has been quiet since that time but but he has been secretly brewing new projects. A few months ago he had put a new song...more

Peter Hammill, founding member of Van Der Graaf Generator, released his 28th solo album " nearly 3 months ago. He recently got back home from a short tour covering North America, Canada and Italy. In the 70's when bands like...more

FRIGHT PIG Barque At The Lune *** REVERSAL OF GRAVITY Scuba Gear ***

BRYAN BELLER / THANKS IN ADVANCE (Onion boy Records - 2008)

The name Bryan Beller is no stranger to prog listeners as he worked for many years with Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa), Zappa Brothers (Project Z) and Steve Vai and played bass in Adult Swim's Dethklok. "Thanks In Advance", his second solo album was released a few weeks ago from Beller's own label Onion Boy Records.

The first thing you will notice listening to this CD is that this is not a "my solo album, now I get to show off" type of work. Which is a big plus and something that is not easy to achieve as it requires intense focus... or extreme comfort in your own musical skin. He could have been all over it with crazy riffs, in the end isn't it his own project? But instead Beller professionally composed all the songs and yes his presence is obviously there but not "in your face". Yet he steps forward when it is necessary and when he is in the background you can't not notice his flawless playing.

The album is a seamless mixture off many different genres. You will hear jazz, blues, rock, fusion but good luck placing it in any one of these categories. "Love Terror Adrenaline / Breakthrough" is a masterpiece of fusion with a killer guest appearance by Mike Keneally. It is the longest song (over 10min.) and in these 10+ minutes it goes from jazz to prog rock (an even some psychedelic feel too). Mike Keneally not only executes a dazzling guitar solo but he also plays electronic vibes and piano. You will also hear Bryan play rhythm guitar, acoustic piano, percussion, synth and of course bass. One of the best tracks on the CD is actually one of the shortest ones (under 2 minutes) titled "Life Story" on which Beller plays different bass guitars. There are no other instruments. "Thanks In Advance" has a very moving blues/rock sound with jazzy bass riffs whereas "Greasy Wheel" and "From Nothing" have their Zappaesque moments.

He is a graduate of Berklee, his resume is stacked with credits working with legends and he is darned good at what he is doing.... all the reasons for a musician to be spoiled, yet this is one of the most down to earth and soulful albums you could ever hear. It is very emotional, moving and warm unlike many other instrumental albums that float around. The reason why you will feel immediately connected to his sound is because he is not trying to prove anything... everything just flows naturally. If you like well done instrumental music and haven't purchased "Thanks In Advance" yet go to Bryan's website at: www.bryanbeller.com or to www.onionboyrecords.com, it's worth every penny, you won't regret it.

HANDE BURDG