“Aquaplanage” is the creative adventure for a dedicated group of artists originally calling “Fragile“ (an enduring Yes tribute band) their musical home base. The seeds were planted as ideas and sketches of songs several years ago among the band, nurtured, and developed, culminating in it’s release in December of 2008.
     “Aquaplanage” has all the elements of a truly progressive rock venture - ethereal musical landscapes, beautiful and challenging guitar riffs, rhythm and mood changes, lilting keyboard and synthesizer, and poignant lyrics beautifully sung, all nicely rolled up and served in 9 tracks.
     I would like to interject a bit of advice at this point. I would recommend that this album be listened to at least once with headphones on. I usually use music as a soundtrack for my day, playing in the background, to accompany my daily chores, errands etc., and have done so with this CD as well, but in order to really hear the beauty of this project, headphones are a must. There is so much going on here, blending in perfectly for the overall effect, that when heard with the headphones, really shine, particularly the flute, the strings, and the harmonizing vocals.
     “Ode to Grey Mornings” is an epic piece, consisting of 5 distinct sections: “Innocence”, “Pleasure’s Mine”, “The Journey”, “Rebellion”, and “Wiser”. At just over 15 minutes in length, it could have become tedious, but throughout, the emotions and music ebb and flow effortlessly.
     “Innocence” is a sweet starter with smooth harmonizing vocals, bursting into action with “Pleasure’s Mine”, with twisting passages of guitar and synthesizer and staccato drums, before calming down again, with “The Journey”. The voice and bluesy guitar here are a nice interlude, before picking up the pace again in “Rebellion”. I love the bass and guitar interaction here, nicely balanced by the drums and keyboards. There is so much going on…but not confusing or chaotic at all. “Wiser” gives a feeling of completion or closure, re-visiting the initial theme with the lighter harmonies and mood. 
     I have to say that the guitar is phenomenal in this piece, dominant at times…but then the bass emerges and takes the lead. I think that it is the unique ability of each member to be able to take control of the piece, then know when to let go and let another take over, that makes “Aquaplanage” work so well. Everyone gets their chance to shine.
     "The Sands of Time” seduces us with voices, instruments and a dominant middle-eastern feeling, weaving a sensual tapestry of vibrant emotions.
     “Nature’s Sunday”, starts as a soft break from the musical inundation thus far. A nice bit of light fare in the banquet; a chance to take a breath and listen to the artful blending of guitar and Rob Illesh’s velvety voice. The feeling builds, joined by the piano and drums, however, just as you get comfortable, the pace picks up. The vocals change, and the keyboards and driving guitar take the lead, evoking a distinct contrast and ebullient feeling, before quieting down again, returning to the flute, guitar, and gentle voice, bringing it full circle. 
     “Solara” is a thoughtful piece, reminiscent of those early progressive keyboard interludes. It begins with a nice clean piano, transitioning to organ, with synth sounds twisting and folding among themselves, reverting back to the piano. There is a sweetness - dare I say innocence in this piece, that makes me feel very quiet and contemplative.
     “Aquaplanage” the CD’s namesake, strikes me as a melancholy piece. It speaks to me of a time, or of a love lost. Of wishing that something were different. Of reflection. It is light and delicate; the strings (especially the cello) and the guitar further enhancing the reflective mood here. Lovely.
     “Heaven’s Gate” is a beautiful ballad, where Steve Carney’s voice is highlighted, and he is superb. Skillfully backed by gentle piano in the beginning, building, with a nice guitar bit at the end, the lyrics and overall feeling have struck a chord in this incurable romantic’s heart, making it my favorite piece here.
     “A Song to Stand Above them All”, is a boisterous, upbeat anthem to music. It gets a bit jazzy around mid-point, and ends on a nice positive note.
     “Theme”, another instrumental, showcases the light and lilting guitar, nicely interacting with the keyboards, finishing very sweetly and clean. I remember hearing of an original composition that Fragile did years ago called “Theme”, but I don’t know if it eventually evolved into this piece. 
     The finale of this CD is a Christmas gift for us from the band in the form of “One Star”. It is an uplifting song of hope; I love the flute, percussion, and strings in this. The vocals are clear, and bright, and I found myself joining in for the chorus. This is a song that I’ll be playing for many Christmas’ to come. 
     “Aquaplanage” is truly a feast for the eyes, as well as the ears. The masterful artwork of Ed Unitsky paints a colorful and imaginative canvas of feeling throughout, from the cover and leaflet, to the back insert, and even on the CD itself. The front piece artwork consists of a series of spheres, appearing to be a succession, or evolution of images, culminating in one of a perfect, flawless, brilliant diamond. “Aquaplanage” is that diamond, brilliant - and beautiful.
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Aquaplanage are the fortunate recipients of a gushing review in Musicians Magazine who compare their self titled album to a modern Selling England By The Pound. I think that is a bit overboard, although they do play well and sing like angels, there are still some ingredients missing in the mix. Maybe it's the schmaltzy keyboard interludes between the meaty parts of the songs, or the weaker tracks later in the album which leave the listener feeling a little cheated. But it's worth it for the grand symphonic overtures and the sing-along choruses, which left great melodies to remind me of Aquaplanage for a long time after. (from www.progressiveears.com)
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My Other Half bought me this album for Christmas; knowing as she did, my love of YES music and my following of Fragile.  I have to say the album is brilliant!  I love it!  Steve Carney - great voice; and all the rest of the band - fantastic.  My iPod and I thank you!
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If you like a exelent progressive rock, don't wai more, by this records asap
Thanks
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