[progdirjim(Admin)]

RPWL

To my ears, this German band sounds Floydian, not in a derivative way, with some 80's rock (the good stuff) mixed in. Bass, drums, guitar, keys and vocals. They mentioned they added a second keyboardist for live shows - I think the lead vocalist must also play keys on the albums - live he just sang. Very tight, very solid. Yogi the guitarist is quite good, and must be one of the leaders of the group. Also had the best stage presence. I liked that the vocalist introduced each song by telling what it was about. They had their own video display going, nicely coordinated to the music/lyrics. Very likeable band.

Ritual

Swedish 4 piece group that morphed from a typical bass, drums, keys, guitar lineup to an interesting array of ethnic/acoustic instruments,depending on the song. Guitarist was the main singer, interesting voice. Keyboard player always played keys. On the acoustic numbers, drummer played what looked like a toy xylophone and a bizzare instrument that looked like the stick, was worn like a guitar, was played with a bow, and had fingered extensions from the lower part of the neck that controlled the notes. Bassist played bouzoki (sp?) and a recorder/penny whistle type of thing. Overall sound on the electric stuff was a more progressive Led Zep, maybe Zep mixed with Yes. Acoustic stuff was nicely folkish/ethnic. Interesting dressers.

Tony Levin Band

They were great, *yawn.* What did you expect me to say? As much as I enjoyed them, it's hard to write about such an iconic figure. What am I gonna say that you don't already know? Maybe the variety? Opened with a barbershop quartet self-introductory piece featuring incredible harmonies and an obvious sense of self-deprecating humor. Second piece was one of the most progressive pieces of music at the festival so far - polyrhythmic drums, keys, guitar alternating between rhythm, lead and textures, and Tony playing the stick with a bow. Third song was a well crafted pop song with vocals and progressive overtones. You get the idea. Tony has a fabulous stage presence/persona.

In the side note column, there's a few interesting pieces of art in the lobby of the Teatro Del Estado, and it's cool hearing all the languages being spoken.

Peace out.