[Powerslave]

In the "Pendragon" thread, exPurple mentioned his dislike for most progressive vocalists. I have experienced the same feelings as he has (but to a lesser extent), and started to wonder what other people felt about progressive rock vocalists. Who are your favorites? Or would you just do without them altogether? Sound in, prog-heads!

Here's my list of favorites:

Jon Anderson - If you have to ask, you'll never understand!

Peter Gabriel - While I like much of the Phil Collins period (especially W&W and TOTT), this man is the true voice of Genesis, in my opinion. He has a distinct, recognizable style and sound, and conveys an unbelievable range of emotion in all his work.

Greg Lake - A great voice that accompanies the great music, rather than dominating it. From the gentle reserve of "I Talk to the Wind" to the grandiose pride of "Jerusalem," Lake covers all the bases.

Neal Morse - I'm sure many of you won't agree with me, but this guy may be the best singer to come along in the last few years. He doesn't really have a broad range or an operatic background, but what he lacks in technical skill, he more than makes up in raw emotion. And that's what really counts in my book; some bands are so hell-bent on showing off their chops (*cough* Dream Theater *cough, cough*), that the emotion never has a chance to surface. IMO, this ain't the case with Spock's Beard or Transatlantic.

Lana Lane - Another example of raw emotion, this chick can really belt it out. Only difference here, though, is that the voice takes center stage and the music doesn't really blow you away. But man, what pipes!

Honorable mentions (don't really have anything to say about them, but I still like)--
Geddy Lee (Rush)
D.C. Cooper (Royal Hunt on "Paradox" and "Moving Target")
Timo Kotipelto (Stratovarius, guest spot with Ayreon)

I'm sure I could come up with more, but I'll let it go for now. However, I would like to put in my vote for best example of a vocalist ruining a great progressive band.

Though it pains me to say it, since they are one of my new favorite bands, Galleon has got a really bad vocalist. Goran Förs just really can't cut it as a singer. I wonder how far this band could have gone with vocalist more in tune with the English language. Not every song is awful but there are always a few lines that leave begging for the next keyboard solo to arrive.

Well, there you have it, folks. I'm spent. Let's here what you all have to say about it.