Heart of Cygnus

I ran into this gem on MySpace. As soon as I heard them, I added them to my friend’s list.

The band is comprised of Jeff Lane; Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Vocals and Jim Nahikian; Drums.

This epic CD entitled Utopia is very impressive. From beginning to end the music never lets up. It has it all for the prog lover. They move from beautiful acoustic guitar and vocals with symphonic keys to a more progressive feel that anyone who likes progressive rock will appreciate.

The CD consists of 12 compositions that run into each other like a flowing river into a majestic ocean. You are engulfed with the music as soon as it begins. Each tune has its own identity, however, it fits together like a concept album should. I would recommend this CD to anyone who likes progressive, concept stories.

It is hard to say which song I prefer, since they do all fit together. However, one that sticks out is entitled “The Dream”. It is only 2 minutes and 43 seconds, yet it has everything from an acoustic guitar and strings beginning with very impressive vocals. Then it has synthesizers and heavy guitar riffs that are very tasty.

This whole piece is very melodic and well thought out. It resembles bands such as Rush and has influences all the way back to Uriah Heep and everything in between.

Don’t take my word for it, though. If this piqued your curiosity, check them out at their MySpace site at http://www.myspace.com/heartofcygnus. There you can listen to them and purchase this well done CD. Also on their page, they do a very good cover of Supertramp’s, “Logical Song”. It is well worth looking into.

Rumor has it that they will be on tour early next year. I definitely won’t miss them. Check them out because it’s all about the music. Until next time, rock on!!!

~Review by Marco Herrán - All Access Magazine, Vol 5, Issue 12