LITTLE ATLAS - HOLLOW - 2007

It's truly a wonderful thing when a modern progressive rock band knows how to execute and deliver memorable vocal melodies, and mix that up with vintage 70's sounds as well aggressive passages found in modern hard rock and metal. Miami's Little Atlas have done all these things and more on their third CD Hollow, their first for up and coming label 10T Records. Although their first two releases were strong, you could say that three times a charm here on Hollow, a musical document that envelopes everything that we love about prog. Soaring vocals, nimble, at times aggressive guitar work, loads of vintage sounding keys, tight rhythms, thought provoking lyrics, and just the right amount of drama, whimsical humor, and grandeur.

Although you can hear references to such bands as Gentle Giant, Echolyn, Spock's Beard, The Flower Kings, Yes, and Marillion, the songs here on Hollow are not really derivative in any way. The lead vocals of Steve Katsikas are both mysterious and powerful on the stunning "Paranoiac", and he's supported by his own intricate keyboard lines, Rik Bigai's nimble bass grooves, and the sinewy guitar work from Roy Strattman. Bigai's incredible work on this one seems to come from a fusion perspective, and adds the perfect amount of pizzaz to this symphonic rocker. Other highlights include the epic "Silence", complete with some nice hooks and robust instrumentation, the melodic Flower Kings influenced sing-along "Contumacious", the charming acoustic tinged "Hiding", and the rollicking "Stage", a song that has its fair share of bouncy rhythms, funky electric piano lines, ripping gutiar leads, and effective vocals from Katsikas. However, it's the hard rocking & grandiose prog of "Symbiosis" that might be the CD's most accomplished track, as the band almost does for US prog what Kansas perfected in the late 70's. All the players are locked in on this one, with drummer Diego Pocovi really laying down some complex grooves along with Bigai's bass licks, allowing Katsikas and Strattman to really work overtime delivering some catchy riffs and solos. Check out Strattman's wild solo on this one, as he explodes with some fiery prog metal fury before toning it back for a delicate Steve Howe flavored run. If all this weren't enough, the album closer "Special" is just a gorgeous number with fantastic vocal melodies, rich backing vocals, lush acoustic guitars, and a neat retro synth solo from Katsikas.

If you haven't already been sold on Little Atlas, chances are this epic and cohesive recording known as Hollow is going to reel you in, hook, line, and sinker. Modern prog with a sophisticated edge, littered with plenty of pop, hard rock, and 70's elements-what more can you ask for? Bravo guys, keep up the good work!
http://www.seaoftranquility.org