Black Bonzo is Magnus Lindgren (lead vocals), Joakim Karlsson (electric guitars, acoustic guitars, bouzouki, and flute), Nicklas Ahlund (Hammond organ, mellotron, grand piano and synthesizers), Anthon Johansson(bass), and Mike Israel (drums, percussion and Indian chanting).

The band are classic progressive rock in sound and style, in fact if it wasn't for the modern production sound you'd have thought this album was released in the 70's.

The sound is heavily driven by the Hammond of Nicklas Ahlund and overall they really remind me of Jethro Tull, especially on ‘Giant Games' and ‘The Well', as well as Uriah Heep due to the Hammond sound and vocal harmonies. Some cracking synths on the intro to ‘Thorns Upon A Crown' with the guitar solos neatly woven in between the lyrics.

A very enjoyable prog rock album in the classic style of 70's bands such as Yes, Jethro Tull mixed with the harder rock of Uriah Heep. Like Presto Ballet, Black Bonzo keep the flame of 70's prog rock alive and well!

****

Review by Jason Ritchie