For fans of decent symphonic prog rock, a new release by Transatlantic is always a treat. This American/British/Swedish occasional group does not only consist of four coryphées of neo-prog, but they also take great care to live up to this reputation. Their fifth album is again a dazzling ensemble of complex rhythms, spun out themes and epic solos. On The Absolute Universe they add, more than ever,
… tight polyphonic vocals, to which all members contribute. Drummer Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater, Sons Of Apollo), guitarist Roine Stolt (The Flower Kings), bassist Pete Trewavas (Marillion) and keyboardist Neal Morse may sometimes seek more broadness within their own bands, within Transatlantic they purely live out their love for the classic symphonic rock of Yes and King Crimson, alongside (particularly in the vocals) The Beatles and ELO. Once again, they do so with the perfection and allure of a superband. (MR)more
