Keys to Ascension 2

This two-CD set is that odd musical griffin: a live disc plus a studio disc. While the live material is rendered well, it's dispiriting that two of Yes' three live albums of the '90s rehash material adequately covered in Yessongs and Yesshows. While the appearance of Steve Howe's classical guitar on the lovely "Turn of the Century" is a pleasant surprise, the rest of the live album is nothing that you haven't heard before…

Yes, this time consisting of Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Rick Wakeman, and Alan White, got together for three nights in March of 1996 in San Luis Obispo, CA, to cut Keys to Ascension, the group's fourth live album in 28 years, which is rounded out with two new studio creations. Four of the seven live tracks are covers of songs that the band originally recorded between 1970 and 1974. The group has aged well, and Keys to Ascension is a more satisfying album than 1980's Yesshows…

UK band Nth Ascension was formed in 2009, originally using the moniker Nth Degree, and solidified as a band unit in 2010. An initial demo was released in 2011, and in 2014 they signed to UK label Sonic Vista for the release of their official debut album "Ascension of Kings". In 2016 they left their former label to sign up for US label Melodic Revolution Records, who released their sophomore production "In Fine Initium". Nth Ascension is very much an English band, exploring landscapes and sounds that were invented and developed on the British Isles. Melodic, powerful progressive rock is the name of the game here, and then by and large explored inside a neo progressive general context. Their take on the genre is one that relies heavily on alternating, contrasting arrangements and a striking lead vocalist further enhancing the dramatic aspects of the compositions.

World-class, Progressive Metal outfit, DIVINE ASCENSION, have returned, unleashing their brand new album, “The Uncovering,” upon the world. DIVINE ASCENSION’s second release, “Liberator” launched them on a 30+ date tour of Europe supporting STRATOVARIUS with GLORYHAMMER. They conquered their own shores nationally, supporting BILND GUARDAIAN on their full national tour and then went on to complete a lengthy headline tour of Australia…

Trying to place Divine Ascension's transcendental pedigree in a jar is quite the task. While "As the Truth Appears" sticks highly to the norms of progressive/power metal with an abundant supply of keyboards and female vocals, there remains a clear essence of a pristine elegancy that illuminates everything this band touches…