Froskull: Froskull

When I think of progressive rock countries like England and Sweden immediately come to mind. So what about Nashville, you know that hotbed of country music? Froskull hails from Nashville, Tennessee and yes, they are progressive in the truest sense of the word.

The beginnings of the band go back to 2008 and the Stephen Rockford Hammond Band which eventually became Froskull. The band is Stephen Hammond (guitars), Brett Hammond (guitars), Jason Schond (bass) and Adam Dennis (drums). I am not sure who sings and plays keys as it was hard to find information on specific band members. So, on to the music, which I have to say was a very pleasant surprise. One never knows what to expect when hearing new bands and such was the case with Froskull. The band plays heady progressive rock in the vein of '70s giants like Yes and Rush. The vocals especially have a Yes-like feel at times and are excellent throughout the album. The vocal harmonies, in particular, are very well done and add many melodic moments. The guitar playing is also well thought out with interesting riff progressions and excellent solos recalling Steve Howe at times. The album begins with "A Thousand Years" and its xylophone intro. Both Rush and Yes can be heard in the guitar and vocals respectively making for a fine opening track. In "Wait" the intro has a grandiose feel, a combination of arpeggio and solo guitar. An off kilter rhythmic pattern, interesting samples and effects gives this one a proggy space rock vibe. "Alabaster" combines dream-like soundscapes with heavier rhythms hinting of '70s Floyd whereas the quirky "Should Have Known" switches gears as it enters into the pop realm. Some of the album's best moments can be found in the last few tracks. "Paramatman" features more Yes-ish vocal harmonies and soaring guitar while "Perihelion" is one of my favourite tracks with excellent guitar runs, ala Steve Howe, over scintillating organ work.

Although not a perfect album, improvements with the production would be beneficial, Froskull have made a fine melodic progressive rock album that should appeal to fans of classic '70s prog. I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to hearing what they do next.

Track Listing:
1. A Thousand Years
2. Wait
3. Aalabaster
4. Should Have Known
5. Bardo 1
6. The Road To Sto-vo-kor
7. Bardo 2
8. Report From Ganymede
9. Paramatman
10. Bardo 3
11. Perihelion
12. Bardo 4

Added: June 27th 2014
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 2056
Language: english

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