The Nice 1969 The Nice

Genre: Progressive Rock
Rate: 128 kbps CBR / 44100
Time: 00:43:55
Size: 40,13 MB




Review by Gatot

For those who really want to explore prog music, I advise you to enjoy this CD and try to understand the subtleties of the music and how they later influenced the further advancement of prog music. The music might not really favor your ears for two reasons: sonic quality and (probably) excessive use and improvisations of keyboards by the maestro: Keith Emerson. Remember, the Nice was the embryo of what later became ELP (Emerson Lake and Palmer) and Refugee (which comprised of Lee Jackson, Brian Davidson and Patrick Moraz who later joined Yes). So, the band itself is a legendary in the history of prog rock.

The music features all elements of classical music, improvisations as well as song-oriented music. "Rondo" is a good example of how the band blended classical music and long improvisations (which may cause you to get bored). Oh yeah, if you are already familiar with early albums of ELP, you would definitely like this song because all keyboards sounds are completely ELPish. Through this track Keith Emerson demonstrates his virtuosity in playing the keyboards with some complex notes throughout musical segments. Unfortunately, this does not seem so attractive for me because the rhythm section which comprises drums and bass are so boring - repeated chords and notes all the time while Keith delivers his keyboard work.

"Hang On To A Dream" is a good example of song-oriented composition. It has nice and catchy piano / keyboard works on top of strong melody sung by Lee Jackson. I personally love the voice quality of Lee Jackson. I think, his voice is so unique that I cannot find any other vocalist can sing like the way he does. Try Refugee, you will fully understand what I mean. But in this "Hang On To A Dream" he also sings excellently.

Overall, this is a good album which explores all components of classical music, improvisations and song-orientated compositions. This is a must for those of you who really want to explore prog music from its roots. You would understand how classical music influenced prog. Keep on proggin' ..!


Tracklist:

01 - Azrael Revisited 05:57

02 - Hang On To A Dream 04:47

03 - Diary Of An Empty Day 04:00

04 - For Example 08:58

05 - Rondo 69 07:56

06 - She Belongs To Me 12:17





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