Search - Gryphon :: Red Queen to Gryphon 3

Red Queen to Gryphon Three - Checkmate

John J. Howard | Memphis, TN USA | 12/31/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you're a prog rock fan into Glasshammer, Pendragon, et al, then Gryphon is a real gem!

I have to admit I was totally unfamiliar with them (there are, after all, literally hundreds of prog rock bands past & present), but I happened to catch them on XM channel 76, and ended up buying this CD based on hearing one song!

I was not dissapointed! This CD embodies many of the traits I love in prog rock including complex themes ranging from quiet interludes to glorious crescendos. The total absence of vocals is irrelevent as the music is complete in and of itself.

Prog rock fans, this one is definitely worth a listen!"

Pick this one up soon

B. E Jackson | Pennsylvania | 02/26/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Gryphon is quite the unique band. They have a Renaissance style that COMPLETELY dominates their sound and style. They don't care about electric guitar solos, drums, or anything like that. And yet, the music they made back in the day still has a distinct rock and roll style, fitting in extremely well with the diverse music scene in the 70's, and totally impresses me.



This album features songwriting that's taken to a more consistent approach. No more instrumental passages that do nothing but sit there and sound pretty. Now the band has musical ideas that are actually *good* and draw you into their unique, colorful Renaissance-influenced sound.



There are moments that sound like Jethro Tull around the time they were working on the Thick as a Brick album. I really really think the beginning three minutes of "Lament" is the best moment in music EVER. See what I said there? Not the best moment in rock music only, best moment in music OF ALL TIME! It's THAT good. You have to hear it to know what I mean.



"Opening Move" is quite impressive as well with some Gentle Giant influences.



A must own."