I've said it before, and I'll say it again: self-produced, self-released music is some of the best stuff out there these days. When a band has enough confidence in their material to take the fiscal and emotional strain of publicity and promotion onto their own shoulders, it is more often than not a sign that there is something magical lurking in that material. And the first album by Crucible is more proof of this theory than I had ever expected to receive.
Clearly influenced by the "golden era" of British prog, Crucible have crafted a set of songs that easily could have been written by Genesis during the Trick of the Tail era. The songwriting on Tall Tales is some of the best I've heard in years; a striking maturity of composition is paired with vocalist Bill Esposito's gift for forming inventive and unusual vocal melodies.
"The Poet Liar" makes the most immediate impression upon first listen, a compelling and forceful tune that sticks in the head after one listen. Also notable is "Land For Sale", a beautiful and touching piece that deals with the emotional attachments we form with our homes and our possessions. And "An Imp's Tale" is a classic multi-part prog joyride, complete with a well-written and thoughtful fantasy story.
If my friends at Magna Carta are reading this (and I should hope so!), let me say this for their benefit: sign Crucible! Give them a multi-record deal! It is not just hyperbole when I say that these fellows could become the next Genesis or Kansas. SIGN THEM!
(OK, shameless pleading with the audience is over, for now.)
Tall Tales is available directly from the band.
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