Rob Wessel, a veteran of the Milwaukee-area music scene and an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, may have retired his progressive-rock project Concept of Innocence, but that doesn’t mean the rest of can’t enjoy its accomplishments.
Songs from the Heart represents Concept of Innocence’s entire output -- five songs and 55 minutes of vintage prog bliss recorded between 2008 and 2011. Think Yes (“Wavelengths”). Think Genesis (“Without Limits”). Think Rush (“House With Two Books”). Wessel played everything but drums, which were expertly executed by Jim Kube, another Milwaukee music mainstay.
Originally mixed in 2012, the songs underwent updated mixes in 2020, and Wessel is ready for the world to hear them anew. Sounding fresh and classic at the same time, tracks like “As in Art” (on which Kube shines) and “From the Heart” (an uplifting instrumental) exude warmth and reverence. And while his guitar, bass and keyboard playing trumps his vocals, Wessel’s singing voice lands somewhere between Jon Anderson and Steve Hackett. His command of melody and structure dominates these performances.
Even though Wessel says Concept of Innocence likely will remain inactive, he’s writing and recording more prog material. Here’s hoping he shares that stuff with us, too -- regardless of what he calls the project.
(Songs from the Heart is not available in physical format but can be heard on iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, Deezer and SoundCloud.)
Track Listing:
1. Wavelengths
2. Without Limits
3. As In Art
4. House With Two Books
5. From the Heart
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
