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Review:
Tricks of Time
 Here
we have proggers from Stockholm, Sweden. Grand Stand describe themselves as
symphonic/progressive rock—an accurate description. The music is big, symphonic,
lush, and complex. It is indeed grand.
The album opens big, with a soaring guitar melody backed by rich keyboards. The
song, “Jurrasic Spark” then smoothly introduces bass, drums and vocals. Right out of
the gate I’m very impressed by these players. The drums are super busy (ghost notes
galore on the snare) yet do not tread on the other player’s parts. These musicians
know how to play as a group, while still keeping their individual parts interesting.
I’m impressed by Grand Stand’s compositional skills. Keeping the listener’s interest
is key when attempting 11+ minute songs. Grand Stand succeed in keeping my attention
focused through their use of dynamics, instrumental breaks, strong vocal melodies
and interesting compositional structure.
Track two, “Words Are Not Enough” had me hitting rewind repeatedly. In fact I’m
listening to it again as I write this review. Guitarist Michael Rank Jensen’s
playing is amazing. His bluesy/jazzy solo break is one of the best I’ve heard in
awhile. “Words Are Not Enough” also treats us to a keyboard solo, and some wicked
drum playing. This short instrumental song may be my favorite on the album. I’m
going to hit rewind again!
The album continues with more progressive excellence. Great compositions and great
playing. Grand Stand’s Genesis influence is apparent, but is not a detriment. Grand
Stand has carved out their own sound. I especially appreciate their use of dynamics.
Just as SPEAKING IN ALL CAPS IS BORING, music at a constant high dynamic is boring.
Grand Stand deftly avoids listener burnout by varying their dynamics. Especially
noteworthy is their ability to do this as a group. These are sensitive, sympathetic
players of the best kind.
The album’s mix is for the most part well balanced. At times I thought the keyboards
were mixed a bit loud, which tended to bury the drums and guitar. The overall
production is excellent though.
Bass guitar in the album is well played, though a bit utilitarian. I found myself
wishing the bass playing was more adventurous—more on par with the other
instruments.
Vocals are also quite good. Göran Johnsson has a pleasing voice, and uses it well. I
would recommend that he enunciate more—his diction is a bit fuzzy in places. Of
course, he’s singing in a second language (English). That in itself is quite an
accomplishment!
Tricks of Time is an excellent album, in heavy rotation in my CD player. I look
forward to more music from Grand Stand. Highly recommended.
9 out of 10
keyboards
Reviewer: Jeffrey Ryan Smoots
Visit the artist website:
Grand Stand
Additional Musicians
Fredirik Andersson
Hansi Cross
MP3 pending
Check
out the free Grand Stand MP3 " Words
Are Not Enough"
available on our
MP3 page
Discography
In the middle, On the edge
(1998)
Signs Of Life-A Tribute To Pink
Floyd (2000)
Tricks Of Time (2002)
You can purchase this CD from
Grand Stand
Contact
grandstand@progressrec.com
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