easons for a Decade from Project: Alcazar is the joint efforts of Chris Steberl (Guitar, Bass & Keyboards) and John Homan (Drums and Percussion). A relatively short album by today's standards, clocking in at just over 32 minutes long and features seven instrumental tracks. A mixture of self penned Prog/Metal and adaptations of classical pieces from Mussorgsky, Vivaldi and Mozart - so no problems here with the compositional content.
Within a few bars of the opening track you are aware of Chris's obvious fretboard skills and the ensuing tracks confirm this. Most of the compositions are fast and furious - not one for driving in the car with - and there is an obvious chemistry between the two musicians, allowing them to convince you that this is a band album. I've never been a great one for comparisons with other bands/musicians, however, to help anyone thinking of getting a copy of Reasons for a Decade, Malmsteen, Macalpine, Becker, Satriani (Neptune Island) - all come to mind.
From start to finish the music is a blistering powerhouse of excitement and for those more metal orientated this is one to check out. Highlights for me would be the excellent Sahara Skies with it's Al Di Meola / Pat Methany qualities and the final track Silk n Honey which is superb.
Conclusion : Not particularly a Prog Rock album in the traditional sense but worthy of inclusion for several reasons. An admiration for the musicianship shown by both Steberl and Homan although personally I would have preferred to hear more of Chris's compositions. Never having been totally convinced with renditions of classical pieces (I am sure there are many ELP fans who would disagree), this aside the dexterity and skill of both Steberl and Homan bring their own dimensions to these pieces.
easons for a Decade from Project: Alcazar is the joint efforts of Chris Steberl (Guitar, Bass & Keyboards) and John Homan (Drums and Percussion). A relatively short album by today's standards, clocking in at just over 32 minutes long and features seven instrumental tracks. A mixture of self penned Prog/Metal and adaptations of classical pieces from Mussorgsky, Vivaldi and Mozart - so no problems here with the compositional content.