VITALIJ KUPRIJ – Progression

Just in Time for the Holidays

As the year 2020 is coming to a close with all of it’s twists and turns that have effected so many, Ukrainian-American pianist and composer Vitalij Kuprij delivers a fine album of Neo-Classical Metal to keep us cheerful and bright over the holidays and beyond. The album Progression is the 10th full length effort from keyboard virtuoso Vitalij Kuprij (Trans-Siberian Orchestra) who brings a host of excellent musicians along for a thrilling musical joy ride. Dave Naccarelli is solid on the bass as is Jon Doman who does some incredible drumming, add to that 7 different guitarists who are each a star in their own right and you have the perfect recipe for a great album.

About the Album

As the full writer/producer (with the exception of a little help from J.S. Bach on “Power of God”), Vitalij Kuprij has orchestrated an exceptional collection of instrumental songs that not only feature his incredible piano/keyboard skills, but also that of some fantastic guitarists in Tommy Vitaly, Michael Harris, Roger Staffelbach, Bill Hudson, Angus Clark, Christian Münzner, Leonardo Porcheddu and Javier Leal. Each guitarist adds their unique talents to those of Kuprij, creating a very listenable album that reminds of Tony MacAlpine early album Maximum Security. The melodies are strong, the production is solid and the performances are all stunning.

Favorite Tracks

In the opening intro on “Internal Force”, Vitalij Kuprij solos with a haunting delay that echoes back to memories of Rainbow Rising, or “The Angel of Death” by Thin Lizzy. The song breaks into a frenetic explosion of metal as guitarist Tommy Vitaly matches Kuprij lick for lick in style and fluidity. “Dansanity” has a great feel as drummer Jon Doman really grooves, riffing off of the syncopated organ of  Kuprij to great effect. One of the most memorable tracks for this reviewer is “Sinfonietta” as Bill Hudson delivers a near perfect performance and melds so well with Vitalij Kuprij’s keyboards, giving us a festive musical number to celebrate the sheer joy of music.

Final Notes

Instrumental albums can be a difficult formulae to perfect, but Vitalij Kuprij has come up with the right recipe for success here on Progression. The album has everything a TSO fan could want, as well as any fans of Neo-Classical Metal. Arriving just in time to end the year with a little joy, and a more than worthy addition to your music collection.

Lineup

Vitalij Kuprij – Keyboards
Dave Naccarelli -Bass
Jon Doman – Drums
Stephen Doman – Guitar (Facing the End)
Tommy Vitaly – Guitar (Internal Force)
Michael Harris – Guitar (Dansanity)
Roger Staffelbach – Guitar (Revolution/Evolution)
Bill Hudson – Guitar (Sinfonietta)
Angus Clark – Guitar (Whispers from Beyond)
Christian Münzner – Guitar (Progression)
Leonardo Porcheddu – Guitar (Remembrance)
Javier Leal – Guitar (Power of GOD)

Progression – Tracklist

01. Internal Force
02. Dansanity
03. Revolution/Evolution
04. Sinfonietta
05. Whispers from Beyond
06. Progression
07. Remembrance
08. Power of GOD
09. Progression (Reprise)
10. Facing the End