Neo-Prog
Netherlands
Dutch neo-prog band MARATHON (not to be confused with Italian and German bands with the same name) were formed in Enschede in the early 90's. They recorded two albums and then followed up with a live CD just before breaking up. As far as influences go, SAGA definitely comes to mind; add a few touches of RUSH for the muscle and some AOR-like ballads à la WINGS OF STEEL, and you'll have a good idea of what they sound like.
Guitarist Erik Ten Bos clearly dominates the first album with his Ian Crichton-like power chords, ringing arpeggios and jerky riffs; on slow numbers, he can get pretty emotional with some melodic solos à la Steve Rothery. On the band's second album, "Norm", the SAGA influence is somewhat less obvious. Although it still includes its fair share of hard tracks, it is overall more reflective, leaning closer in style to art rockers FOR ABSENT FRIENDS. It still features some good interplay between keyboards and wailing guitars. As for compositional contents, both albums are a little uneven but still make for an enjoyable ride overall. Impeccable production (lush, polished, pristine sound), good vocals and choruses as well as solid musicianship. The live album offers a good selection from the two studio albums.
Recommended to fans of SAGA, FOR ABSENT FRIENDS, EGDON HEATH, in fact to anyone with an ear for melodic rock with progressive undertones.
Lise (HIBOU), CANADA
ALBUMS:
1996 - NORM
Musicians
- Erik ten Bos / lead and backing vocals
- Ronald ten Bos / guitar
- Tony ten Wolde / keyboards
- Ferry Bult / drums and percussion
- Jacques Suurmond / bass and pedals
1. Ozone Layer (5:41)
2. Heart Of Another One (6:43)
3. Norm (4:33)
4. The Beauty Of Silence (4:52)
5. Casanovas (7:24)
6. Somewhere (5:35)
7. Crime (he Didn't Commit) (4:06)
8. Magic Of Music (6:10)
Total Time: 45:04
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