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rec.music.progressive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), Part 4/8


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                        =======================
                        About Progressive Music
                        =======================


Are there different categories of progressive music? (Answer
contributed in part from from Mike McLatchey)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Conventionally, yes. There are many sub-genres, and crossover
genres. Here is a brief and necessarily incomplete listing of the
genres frequently discussed on r.m.p (some text is taken from the
*GEPR* (see FAQ 5, FAQ 7 and below)).

Ambient
----------------------------------------------------------------------


As the name suggests, a form concentrating on ambience rather than
normal characteristics such as melody, harmony and rhythm.

*Examples:* Some Eno, Laraaji, much new age music.


Art Rock
----------------------------------------------------------------------


A name that is used to refer to early explorative work that had
roots in pop.  Quite often a display of attitude in addition to any
musical features. It is an abused term that seems to refer as much
to appearence as to music in its more common coinage.

*Examples:* Be Bop Deluxe, early Eno, Roxy Music


Canterbury
----------------------------------------------------------------------


A region in England where a unique style originated. The region's
name has now become the label for the style of music. One of the
earliest forms recognised as progressive, Canterbury music emphasises
laconic complexity and usually sounds identifiably English. The ideas
resulting from this form of music were very original. Often quite
jazzy in a light and airy sort of way, integrating jazz influences
in unique ways.

*Examples:* Caravan, Soft Machine, Hatfield  The North, National
Health


Classical Rock
----------------------------------------------------------------------


More accessibly related, bands starting with The Nice that attempted
to fuse classical music with rock structures.  Often felt to be
quite pompous yet were quite successful in their time.  Often a
three man format.

*Examples:* The Nice, ELP, Le Orme, Ekseption, Trace, The Trip


Electronic Progressive
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Often mis-categorized by being as "new age", much of this music was
around far before that abused term was coined.  Very explorative,
this is a wide open field and is typified by the use of almost
all electronic equipment, hence the name. There is often a
concentration on sonority and texture over and above other musical
attributes. Often very spacious and ethereal. Sometimes quite darkly
powerful but not in the way that ambient industrial material tends
to be. The sorts of sounds explored tend to be within the less
extreme synthesiser range.

*Examples:* 70's Tangerine Dream, Klaus Schulze, Steve Roach,
some Popol Vuh, later Kit Watkins, Jean-Michel Jarre


Experimental/Industrial
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Often hard core experiemental material. The fringes of music
where almost anything can happen. Almost always difficult for the
newcomer.  Considerable use of noise, found objects, music concrete
and sometimes even power tools. Generally focusing on texture and
sonority to the expense of all else. A fascinating area for the
adventurous.

*Examples:* Einstürzende Neubauten, Nurse With Wound, Hafler Trio,
Main, Coil


Fusion
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Explorative jazz-rock: a fusion as the name suggests. Maybe a
little jazzier than most progressive music, but rockier than most
jazz. Quite a established and exciting genre with often virtuoso
playing.

*Examples:* Mahavishnu Orchestra, Brand X, Iceberg, Arti+Mestieri


Krautrock
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Slighltly politically uncorrect term used harmlessly to refer to
a form of usually rather strange rock originating from Germany
in the 70s. Typified by a loose, improvisational style with
a large proportion of experimentation and slightly whimsical
flavour. Often difficult to listen to, quite sinister and covertly
intellectual. Very influential in all sorts of areas even today. Some
people regard it as the precursor to industrial music proper which
is fair: there are similarities but probably as many differences. See
Chris Moon's informative Krautrock guide at:

<URL:http://www.progrock.net/prog/Misc/german>

*Examples:* Can, Amon Düül II, Faust, Xhol, Agitation Free, early
Tangerine Dream, Ash Ra Tempel


Neo-Classical Progressive
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Music that fused 20th century classical music with new rock
structures. Sometimes referred to as "chamber rock, this can be
difficult to appreciate at first as artists of this ilk were way out
on a limb and quite different. Also, it tends to be very complex,
requiring many listens to reach a fair appreciation. One of the
least understood genres about which most people are completely
oblivious yet one of the most rewarding.

*Examples:* Univers Zero, Art Zoyd, ZNR


Neo-Progressive
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Symphonic rock done in a typically simplified or more commercial
format. Often rich and melodious but without the complexity of
traditional progressive music. Mostly an 80's and 90's phenomenon.

*Examples:* Marillion, iQ, Pendragon, Twelfth Night, Aragon, Jadis,
Grey Lady Down


Progressive Folk
----------------------------------------------------------------------


A variety of music that took simple folk songs and did something
quite new with them. There were many forms of this.

*Examples:* Emtidi, Witthüser  Westrupp, Malicorne, Mellow Candle


Progressive Metal
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Heavy metal that is influenced by symphonic rock or fusion. Usually
is much more complex than standard metal and emphasising virtuoso
instrumentalists.

*Examples:* Dream Theater, Fates Warning, Watchtower, Siege's Even,
Cynic, Atheist


Rock In Opposition (RIO)
----------------------------------------------------------------------


A name coined by ex-Henry Cow drummer Chris Cutler. This type of
music consistently defies categorization (except for "RIO") and is
extremely challenging and often hard to listen to. However, it is
very rewarding in the long run. The lyrical bent is often political,
especially for those bands Cutler has a hand in. Technically, bands
like Art Zoyd and Univers Zero are RIO as they subscribed to Cutlers
broad musical ethic in its original conception. However, the label
has outgrown its original political connotations and is now used
to refer to artists potraying a similar approach to the seminal
Henry Cow, the central RIO band. See Q's and A's below for a better
description of RIO. See Phil Zampino's (zampino AT squidco.com)
Web site for much information on RIO labels and artists at:

<URL:http://www.panix.com/~zampino/rer/>

*Examples:* Henry Cow, Art Bears, Samla Mammas Manna, News From
Babel, Thinking Plague, Etron Fou Leloublan etc.


Space Fusion
----------------------------------------------------------------------


A rough term given specifically to the superb band Gong for their
unique blend of jazz fusion and extended sweeping ambience. Often
very energetic and concentrating on long jams of psychadelic tinged
soloing. Generally a high level of musicianship in tight restraint to
give a clean, atmosphere of bright and effervescent fusion. "Swooshy"
is a perfect adjective.

*Examples:* Gong, Ozric Tentacles, Neo, Carpe Diem, some Djam Karet


Space Rock
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Like the above but without the jazz edge, more of a straight forward
type of space rock. Hawkwind were almost the be all and end all of
this genre and were the innovators.

*Examples:* Hawkwind, Amon Düül (the English line-up)


Symphonic Progressive
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Characterized by rich keys/synths and very melodic vocals and often
structured like a piece of classical music, arranged for an extended
rock instrumentation. Very much stretching the limits of the rock
format. If someone derides progressive music, this is almost always
the sort of thing they are talking about. You will often hear this
genre mistakenly used as a synonym for the entirety of progressive
music and called "pretentious" or "overblown". Criticisms that
completely miss the point and often belie some misguided idea that
all good music must either display a certain feature or must be
simple and "direct".

*Examples:* Yes (early), Genesis (early), Camel, Atoll, Mirthrandir,
Änglagård


Zeuhl
----------------------------------------------------------------------


One of the truly unique and little-known areas of music typified
and largely due to the incredible French band Magma. It is a term
used to refer to a particular brand of jazz fusion, sometimes with
heavy Coltrane influences but adopting a grandiosity and harmonic
language from certain classical works, particularly Stravinsky's
"Les Noces". Unlike anything else and a personal favourite of the
present FAQ maintainer. Often powerful beyond words.

*Examples:* Magma, Weidorje, Zao, Shub-Niggurath, Honeyelk, Musique
Noise


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


What countries does progressive music come from?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Just about everywhere. Most people reading r.m.p are familiar with
the famous British progressive bands, and most have at least heard of
progressive acts from France, Italy, Germany and the USA. Progressive
music is truly international though. There are progressive artists
from just about every continent, as well as from many places you
would not think of. In Europe, there are artists from Poland,
Sweden, Finland, Spain, Switzerland, The Czech Republic, Austria,
and Greece. In South America, there are quite a few notable acts from
Argentina, Brasil, and Chile. Even the Middle East is represented
with Zingale from Israel. Japan has always been very strong and in
Korea, progressive music even gets radio airplay.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


 Is there a difference between "progressive" and "good"?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 Obviously. Many progressive music fans (myself included) have been
 guilty at some time of either considering all the bands they like
 "progressive", or defining progressive to mean music that they
 consider "good". While this seems to be a human error that many of
 us make, please think twice before posting to r.m.p about a band
 just because you like them. For example, I would consider bands like
 Deicide "progressive" in important ways: they push the boundaries
 of rhythmic interplay, play very complex music with technical skill
 etc., but discussions about them do not really belong on r.m.p.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


Just because an artist has released one or more progressive albums,
does that mean that everything they do is progressive?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

No. This is a common misconception. Though we call them "progressive
music artists", the artists themselves are not progressive - the
music is. Once progressive does not means always progressive. There
are many examples of bands that once made great progressive music,
but have turned to churning out worthless pop music. There seems
to be a trend from progressive music to a more accessible form
of music in many bands' histories, and unfortunately, they rarely
return to what many perceive to be their best work.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


Does lyrical content count towards progressive-ness?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Well written lyrics can never hurt any form of music, but there are
no rules that progressive music has to have good lyrics. Many bands
that display progressive music also display extremely poor lyrics. In
the same sense, many progressive bands are instrumental. Of course,
just because a band has good lyrics, it does not automatically make
them progressive. In other words, progressive music and intelligent
lyrics have little or no obvious correlation. Another issue to
consider is progressive music and progressive politics. While
these are two different things, there is some crossover. However,
one does not necessarily imply the other.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


But didn't this form of music die in the late seventies?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

No. FAQ 8 was specifically designed to give a quick overview of some
currently active artists. Please look at it. True, bands like Yes,
ELP, and Genesis have lost most of their "progressiveness", thus
making it seem like the fan base for progressive music disappeared
around 1979. However progressive music is still extremely strong. In
the eighties it was largely underground, though many artists put
out music equally as progressive as in the seventies. Now, in the
nineties, progressive music has had a revival of sorts, as dozens of
independent labels have been signing new and exciting artists. There
are hundreds of progressive, experimental and innovative bands
currently active, recording, and/or touring. In fact, today, we have
some of the finest music in the genre being made: it is just harder
to spot and find. To combat this, look at FAQ 2, FAQ 6 and FAQ 8.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


How did rec.music.progressive start?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Discussions of progressive music used to occasionally happen
on newsgroups like alt.rock-n-roll and rec.music.misc, and on
mailing lists like Gibraltar as well as others dedicated to specific
artist. In mid-1992, Scott McMahan started alt.music.progressiveand
gradually a number of people wandered in and started offering
reviews of new and old music in this genre and a helping hand to
new and old fans of progressive music interested in broadening
their musical horizons. With the general degeneration of the alt.*
heirachy coupled with its limited distribution, rec.music.progressive
was proposed and passed its CFV on May 2nd 1995.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               


Can I talk about Yes on rec.music.progressive?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


alt.music.yes exists and is the place to discuss Yes on the
net. However, since Yes was one of the more influential progressive
bands, it only makes sense that Yes should be talked about on r.m.p.
However, not everyone can agree about the "progressiveness"
of newer Yes, and many flamewars have erupted over this issue,
and related issues. So, alt.music.yes was created. While a.m.y is
still a relatively new newsgroup (created in June, 1994), it still
is not certain whether all discussion of Yes will go to a.m.y or
not. Probably not. If you are not certain which newsgroup to post
Yes material to, here is a handy guide.

Yes that has nothing to do with prog in general -- alt.music.yes
Yes in context with some other prog band(s) -- both (r.m.p and
a.m.y) 
A reference to Yes when discussing another prog band -- r.m.p
Pre-Rabin Yes -- a.m.y and maybe r.m.p (use your judgement) 
Rabin-era Yes -- a.m.y
How much you hate Trevor Rabin or Yes in general -- neither

The point is that many people want to be able to discuss Yes in
detail without being flamed for liking the 80's and 90's version of
the band. Others would like to be able to state their (negative)
opinions about Yes without being flamed. Other prog fans do not
listen to Yes, and are tired of 90% of the discussion on r.m.p being
about Yes. The advantages of a.m.y include (hopefully) taking care
of these three issues. One possible disadvantage is that people who
might have developed an interest in other progressive rock bands
via Yes discussion on r.m.p may not get that chance any more. In
any case, these are tenative guidelines to follow. What you post and
where you post it is up to you. If you would like to avoid starting
flamewars and useless discussions, following these guidelines may
help.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


I read a review on rec.music.progressive and it made the band sound
good.  But when I got the album, it was awful!!  What should I do?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Nothing. People who write reviews should not be held responsible for
whether everyone reading the review agrees with them or not. Since
everyone has a different idea of what is good and what is not, take
that into consideration before buying. When reading reviews, you may
want to read as much as you can by a particular author to see if that
person's tastes seem to be close to yours. If you disagree with the
author's opinion 50% or less of the time, then you should think twice
about buying something on that person's recommendation. In general,
it is better to get a consensus of more than three opinions before
you make a purchasing decision, or even better, try to listen to the
music before buying it. While it can be very hard to find obscure
progressive music to buy, much less to listen to, you can listen to
a friend's copy first, or ask someone to tape a copy for you. I have
bought things based on minimal information (usually in the grip of
a CD frenzy at a fair with cash in my hand) and it has been truly
awful when I listened to it at home. You should expect some misses,
even ones that cost consideralbly, in such a diverse field. Actually,
since reading r.m.p and the *GEPR* (see FAQ 5, FAQ 7 and below),
my misses have become much less #frequent. r.m.p saves you money.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


There is a progressive band I really do not like, but I do not want
to post a negative review of them because some people reading the
newsgroup might like them, or the band themselves may eventually
read the review and get mad at me. What should I do?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Post it. Negative reviews are a positive thing. Not all progressive
music is as good as the rest or even good at all. It is important
to differentiate between the excellent, good, mediocre, and poor,
especially since the average cost of a CD is $15-$20 (US) or £12-£20
(UK). While not everyone will agree with your point of view, if you
present your arguments in a non-inflammatory manner, most people will
respect you for it.  The deification of some progressive artists
brings a lack of perspective that in turn hurts the fans more than
helps them. By writing a negative review, even on a progressive
"sacred cow", you may make both new and experienced listeners alike
re-assess their viewpoints, which is always good. But, of course,
this does not mean you should always write negative reviews. Be fair,
but firm.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Somebody said that people without formal musical training cannot
appreciate progressive music. I am a non-musician who really enjoys
progressive music, and I am insulted by this person's "elitist"
attitude. Why do people say these things?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Sometimes because of silly ideas about classical training and
sometimes because of valid insights. Training is neither necessary
nor sufficient for "real" appreciation, mainly because there is
no such thing as "real" appreciation. There are many aspects to
appreciate and everyone has their nuances. However, I will say
that an understanding of music can greatly aid your understanding
of a piece and I have found that, for example, an understanding
of rhythm greatly enhances my appreciation of much music. However,
I know classically trained musicians who adore Status Quo exactly
because analysis is so pointless there. Musical training cannot
hurt. There are no guideliens for this. Some people find that
an appriciation of the exact music score of a piece ruins their
naïve appreciation. I have found this on occasion: learning to
play a line you admire can spoil its mystique. This question has
no answer. Experiment for yourself.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Are there any proggresive musicians on the net?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Many, including Kit Watkins, Allan Holdsworth, Episode, Now,
Anekdoten, Yezda Urfa, Echolyn, Kurt Rongey, Marco Olivetti (TNR),
Mind Gallery, Kalaban, Tony Levin, Mastermind and many others.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


So what are their addresses?  I want to write to them!
----------------------------------------------------------------------

If they want people to write, they will advertise the fact. However
if they post to r.m.p, you can always reply.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Are there any mail order sources or record label representatives
on the net?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Many and the number is growing. See FAQ 2. For example, one of the
first net mail order outlets was started by Ranjit Padmanabhan and
Ken Golden of Laser's Edge can take credit card email orders. Expect
this to become more and more common with mail order outlets putting
their catalogues on-line. There are a few reputable outlets currently
interested in this. Keep your eyes open for anouncements.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Is it true that Phil Collins has not always been the vocalist in
Genesis?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Yes. There were 6 Genesis albums before Phil Collins took over on
lead vocals, although he did the occasional song and backing vocals
before this. Peter Gabriel was the lead vocalist from 1969 until
his departure in 1974.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


What is the relation between Renaissance and Illusion?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


The definitive place to find out about Rennaissance is Northern
Lights - The Renaissance Web Page


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


I have heard that Magma created their own language. Is this true?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Yes. Magma's drummer (and leader) Christian Vander created the
language "Kobaïan", which is what you are hearing sung on most
Magma albums. Recently, work has gone into compiling a phrasebook
of Kobaïan worlds and their Engligh translations. You can find this
on the Magma home page at

<URL:http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Alley/8366/>

From Marcelo Spindola Bacha (dronsz AT if.ufrj.br): Kobaïan is
not exactly a Vander idea, it was based in an original project
from Klaus Blasquiz, as results of some of their studies about
representing graphically other kind of phonemas ... Kobaïan is not
really a language, it is quite incomplete, and it is always changing,
as Vander says. It sounds rather Germanic and slightly Russian.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


What is "The Progressive Music Survey" that people talk about? What
is its relation to the Gibraltar Encyclopedia of Progressive
Rock? How do I get a copy?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


They are the same thing. It is a huge listing of progressive bands,
with their discographies and reviews and overviews of their releases.
It was originally compiled by Dave Markfield in late 1991, but a
more recent version was put together by Mike Taylor in early 1993.
It is an A to Z dictionary of progressive music, and though it
is still incomplete, it contains info on over 1100 artists. Phil
Kime originally put it on-line and it has now moved to a new home,
maintained by Fred Trafton at:

<URL:http://www.gepr.net/>

NOTE: If you are looking for an idea of what particular bands sound
like, or are new to prog and want to get an idea of what is out
there, I strongly suggest perusing the GEPR.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Are bands like Pink Floyd, Supertramp, Styx, Kansas and Rush
progressive?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

That depends on who you ask. There are many people who do consider
them progressive, and many who do not. There are albums by each of
these bands that may generally be considered progressive, but even
some die-hard fans of the aformentioned groups will admit that each
has put out non-progressive material as well.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


I saw an album by a band called Area, but it did not seem like it
was from the Italian fusion band ... ?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

There are two Areas, the one you saw is probably the US band.
The Italian band is the progressive one. Keep in mind that there
are a handful of bands that have "namesakes". Here is a list:

Abraxas
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) '76 Belgian offshoot from Cos 
(2) Polish '90s neo-prog

Ain Soph
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Canterbury style band from Japan 
(2) Gothic band from Italy

Albatross
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) From Italy. One "s" 
(2) '76 USA prog 
(3) Guitar psych band

Aragon
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Australian neo-progressive band 
(2) US metal band

Area
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Italian progressive fusion band 
(2) US trio

Asia
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) UK group with Steve Howe and John Wetton 
(2) Late 70s Midwest USA progressive band

Cathedral
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) The Current neo-progressive band from the US 
(2) The Defunct progressive band on Syn-Phonic 
(3) A doom metal band from the UK

Dark
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) early UK 70s psych band 
(2) USA/Switzerland? mid-80s fusion/space/prog

Delirium
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Italian progressive band 
(2) Mexican progressive band 
(3) Ambient/Trance duo based in Canada

Deus ex Machina
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Recent Italian progressive band 
(2) Mexican "cyberpunk" band.

Dragon
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) '70s Belgian band 
(2) '70s New Zealand Band

Dragonfly
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Hard-rock psychedelic band from LA circa 1971 
(2) Swiss progressive band circa 1978 
(3) UK band that put out *Almost Abandoned*

Eden
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Large Austrian band with folk and classical influences 
(2) French duo comparable to Spring, Gracious and Bo Hansson

Fantasia
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) From Finland 
(2) Post-Kaipa Rione Stolt Swedish band

Finch
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Netherlands prog 
(2) Australian hard rock

 I Flashman
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) USA Art-rock (without the "I") 
(2) Italian pop/rock band with one prog album

Full Moon
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Belgian mid 70s fusion 
(2) Norwegian mid 80s prog/metal

Galaxy
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Prog from Switzerland 
(2) USA heavy psych

Gandalf
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Austrian synthesist/guitarist 
(2) Psychedelic band from early 70's

Genesis
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) The one everyone knows 
(2) Some satanic band?? 
(3) Argentian prog band??

Haze
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Early 70s from Germany 
(2) 80s UK band

Horizant(e)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Swedish late '70s (without the "e") 
(2) Argentinian band

Iconoclast(a)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Mexican prog 
(2) Avant-garde /industrial band (no 'a' in the name)

iQ
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) British neo-progressive band 
(2) German hip-hop

Arthur Brown's Kingdom Come
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Avant-weird-psych-prog band from early seventies.

Victor Periano's Kingdom Come
----------------------------------------------------------------------

US spinoff of the above, more like keyboard-oriented stadium rock.

Kingdom Come
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Late eighties Zeppelin influenced metal band.

Lethe
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Italian '90s band 
(2) early '80s Netherlands prog

Magdelena
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) mid to late '80s Japanese band 
(2) early '80s Spanish band

Magma
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) French Zeuhl band 
(2) Argentian prog band 
(3) Korean band

Masque
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) From Japan 
(2) From Sweden

Nirvana
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Old British band with progressive tendencies 
(2) The popular US band

Now
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) From Belgium 
(2) From US 
(3) From Japan

Octopus
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) German mid-'70s prog 
(2) British psych/prog band from 1969. 
(3) US psych/blues band, one album from 1969 
(4) Norwegian symphonic band, one album in 1981

Phoenix
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Romanian from '73-'75 
(2) UK '76-'80 commerical prog

Providence
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) '90s neo-prog from Japan 
(2) UK from '71 folky prog

Sand
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) '70s German band 
(2) '70s US band

Sirius
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) German euro symphonic style band 
(2) Japanese precursor to Mr. Sirius

Shadowland
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) British neo-progressive 
(2) something else, put out an album named *The Beauty of Escaping*
on Geffen in 1990

Solstice
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Canadian band, style unknown 
(2) UK band, cross between Renaissance and Marillion

Victor
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) '90s Canadian Rush guitarist solo project 
(2) mid-'70s symphonic prog

Wild(e) Flowers
----------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Early Canterbury progressive band 
(2) Mainstream US band??

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Are there any progressive rock radio shows?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

A few. Descriptions are not by the FAQ maintainer.
::Show::
  Alternative Oldies
::Location::
  New Orleans Metro Area
::Station::
  WTUL 91.5 FM
::Time::
  Saturday, 6-8pm
::DJ::
  Mike Taylor
::Comments::
  Music Played: Any rock recorded 1985 or prior.  Most shows
  feature at least some progressive rock and often are entirely
  prog and fusion. Occasionally, the show focuses on psychedelia
  and blues-rock.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  Aural Moon
::Location::
  Wichita, Kansas (Internet Broadcast Only)
::Station::
  <URL:http://listen.to/auralmoon>
::Time::
  24 hours a day/7 days a week
::DJ::
  Davin Flateau, Jim Brennan
::Comments::
  Since we're a broadcast, we play a wide variety of progressive
  rock, including old and new.	We love to play some more obscure
  stuff, and guide people into some great groups they never knew
  about, forgot about, or were too young to experience.  We tend
  to shy away from Dream Theater, its clones, and metal in general
  (although there are exceptions). We add new music to our playlist
  almost every day.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  iRock
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.irock.com>
::Comments::
  A Web radio station ... you can download the shows and listen to
  them using RealAudio Player. See bottom of FAQ 5.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  Exposure
::Location::
  Key West, Florida
::Station::
  See below
::Address::
  43553 Ellsworth St. Suite B, Fremont, CA 94539
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.microserve.net/vradio/vr/html/nv/exposure/exposure.html>
  
::Time::
  Every Monday evening 9PM - Midnight
::DJ::
  John Szpara
::Music Played::
  General progressive rock, from the early seventies on up.
::Comments::
  
*Station information*
WOZN  98.7 FM	  Key West, Florida	  Sunday Evening
10PM-Midnight WPLT  93.9 FM	Plattsburgh, New York	Sunday
Evening around 8PM-10 WOUI  88.9 FM	Chicago, Illinois
Wednesday Evening 6PM-8PM

Playlists for the previous week are posted each week on r.m.p.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  The Sheltering Sky
::Station::
  WBGU, 88.1 FM
::Location::
  Bowling Green, OH
::Time::
  Wednesdays from 7pm to 9pm
::DJ::
  Doug Maynard
::Music Played::
  Broad. Anything I can get my hands on. Classic groups (Yes, ELP,
  Marillion, Kansas, Crimson, Rush, Tull, Gentle Giant, etc...) as
  well as newer or lesser known groups (Ozric Tentacles, Iluvatar,
  Witsend). My collection is modest, but growing.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  Sleepless
::Station::
  WCWM Williamsburg, VA 90.7 FM
::Time::
  Sunday 10am-noon
::DJ::
  Bill Maciejewski
::WWW::
  <URL:http://cs.wm.edu/~wmmaci/>
::Music Played::
  I often play King Crimson, Brian Eno, Frank Zappa, Wire, Pink
  Floyd, Genesis, Discipline, David Sylvian, etc. and a lot more
  obscure stuff. I tend to like wierd instrumentals a lot and
  probably play a lot of things people might not consider progressive
  (but I do, so I play it.  Ha!). See Web page for setlists etc.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Show::
  Watcher of the Skies
::Location::
  Central Arkansas, USA
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.magic105fm.com/> or <URL:http://beakerstreet.com>
::Station::
  KMJX Magic 105, 105.1FM
::Time::
  Every Sunday night at 9PM for approximately 30 minutes
::DJ::
  "Wil Warren" (real name: James J. Warren or JJW)
::Email::
  wwarren AT beakerstreet.com
::Music Played::
  This prerecorded program is available (live over the radio and
  the internet) every Sunday evening at 9PM Central Time (USA)
  in the middle of the famous Beaker Street radio show with "Clyde
  Clifford."  Each Watcher of the Skies segment is devoted to an
  artist or subject concerning any category of progressive rock.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Were there not US releases of some Italian progressive albums with
the same music	but lyrics in English?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Yes, there were several. Most notably, PFM released *Storia
d'un Minuto*, *Per Un Amico*, and *L'Isola di Niente* in
Italian. Manticore (I think this was Peter Sinfield's label...he
did write the lyrics for the English verison but I have also heard
ELP started it) released *Photos of Ghosts* and *The World Became
the World* with remixed instrumentation and English vocals and
titles. These partially cover the three Italian albums. *Photos of
Ghosts* is basically all of *Per Un Amico*, plus `Generale!' which is
from *Storia d'un Minuto*. *The World Became the World* is *L'Isola
di Niente* plus the title track, from *Storia d'un Minuto*. Both
of the English versions are poor pressings, and in general, people
agree that the original Italian versions are far superior, both
technically and performance-wise.

Other bands to do the same are RDM (*Contamination* is the English
version of *Contaminazione*) and Maxophone (English version has
the same title).


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Which Focus album(s) contain "Sugar Island" and "House of the King"?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Although "House of the King" was originally released on *Focus III*,
it's now available on the CD release of , *In and Out of Focus*.
"Sugar Island" is also available on *IaOoF*.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


What is the Mellotron and how does it work? What are related
instruments?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


From afcpeters AT aol.com (Peter Stoller): The Mellotron is a
keyboard instrument in which the sounds are produced by strips of
prerecorded analog tape dragged slowly over playback heads. Think of
it as a mechanical, analog sample-playback device. Tape `patches'
were usually of strings, choirs, flutes and such. The Beatles were
probably the first to use them, but the Mellotron was popularized by
King Crimson, the Moody Blues and Genesis. (Wakeman used them with
Yes, but they were rarely dominant. Emerson never used one.) Songs
such as Crimson's "In the Court of the Crimson King" and Genesis'
"Watcher of the Skies" are good examples of the Mellotron sound.

The Chamberlin was a similar instrument from a different
manufacturer, and Wakeman had someone build him an improved version
of the Mellotron called the Birotron. Patrick Moraz played a Vako
Orchestron, which was the same principal, but using the playback
technology employed in film projectors, rather than tape.

From rogoff AT std.teradyne.com (David Rogoff): For each key there is
a 5' length of tape (= 8sec @ 7.5''/sec). One end rests on a capstan
(rotating metal cylinder that runs the width of the whole keyboard.
On each key is a pinch roller. When you press the key down, the tape
is pressed against the capstan and starts moving. This is exactly
the same as in a cassette deck.  Also under the tape (again one for
each key) is a tape playback head. So, the tape is pulled across
the head, generating the sound. If you hold the key for more than 8
seconds the sound (and the tape) just stops. When you let go of the
key, a spring pulls the tape back. This takes about a 1/8 second,
so you can't play 64th note trills on the thing. In fact, you never
want to hit the keys: you sort of push them down. The action takes
some getting used to.

Also, Each tape is 3/8" wide made up of 3 1/8" tracks for 3 different
sounds. A big lever moved the whole tape head assembly from side
to side to chose the different sounds. If you have access to a 1/2"
four track reel-to-reel you can make your own tapes pretty easily. It
just takes a long time! I've been describing the Mellotron-400,
the most common and most "portable" model.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Eddie Jobson is credited on the King Crimson album USA. Was he ever
in the band?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

No, Jobson was not a member of Crimson, but he did get called in to
do overdubs on *USA*. Apparently Fripp had fired Cross by that point
and needed someone to do the overdubs. The majority of what you hear
on the album is Cross. Jobson did not perform the material live.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


I do a lot of tape trading in order to find out about more obscure
(non-bootleg) progressive music. Is this legal?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


Note that this response only applies to US copyright law. As of this
writing there has not been a specific legal precedent set. In other
words, a case has not been brought before a court involving taping
of non-bootleg material. The current status of the law regarding
home taping is best summed up by Terry Carroll's Copyright FAQ at:

<URL:http://www.cis.ohio-state.edu/hypertext/faq/usenet/Copyright-FAQ/top.html>



	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


Suppose I tape an album or a CD for a friend anyway. Is this helping
or hurting the artist of the work?
----------------------------------------------------------------------

It depends who you tape it for. If you are taping it for somone
who will buy the original if they like it, then it is basically
free advertising and can only help the artist. The other person
would not have bought it anyway if they had not heard it. However,
if you are taping it for people who will just keep the copy even if
they love it, you are hurting them. It is not a clear cut help/hurt
... it depends on the idiosyncracies of the people involved. Seeing
as prog is a minority area where artists need support (and generally
deserve it), I personally make it a policy to buy every album I hear
and like on an original format. Consider it an act of tribute. I
have even baought back catalogue material when I have tape copies
that I rarely listen to. I consider it an honour to own good music
on an original format, you may be different. Use your own discretion
but be aware that what you choose to do may well be illegal and this
FAQ is certainly not suggesting any such behaviour. Tape trading in
minority music simulates, to an extent, the existence of a decent
radio network, not dominated by irrelevant financial concerns.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


What does RIO stand for?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


 From afcpeters AT aol.com (Peter Stoller): Rock In Opposition. It
 was an assemblage of European progressive bands who were defining
 a style "in opposition" to the English language domination of the
 pop music industry. Key elements were that groups sang in their
 native languages (or, in Magma's case, created their own), and
 they drew much of their source material from their own national
 folk, popular and classical musics, instead of using the American
 blues-based model.

RIO started as the name of a festival in London organised
by Henry Cow in 1978 and featuring groups from Italy, Sweden,
France and Belgium. After the concert, they decided to formalize
the coalition. They organized tours and festivals in each others
countries. According to Henry Cow drummer/lyricist Chris Cutler,
RIO as an organization failed due to political and philosophical
differences: there is no longer an official RIO, and has not been for
some time but it succeeded and has continued to grow as a cultural
phenomenon.

The original RIO artists were Henry Cow, Samla Mammas Manna,
Univers Zero, Art Zoyd, Stormy Six, Art Bears, Aqsak Maboul, and
Etron Fou Leloublan.  Associated artists include Magma, Albert
Marcoeur, ZNR, Feliu y Joan Albert, Musica Urbana, Goebbels
Harth, Kraldjursanstalten, Unrest, Work  Play, The Residents,
Faust, L. Voag, Mnemonists, This Heat, Cassiber, Thinking Plague,
Haniwa Chan, and John Oswald. (There are, of course, many others.)
This information was derived from Cutler's book, "File Under Popular"
(see FAQ 3).

From Mike Borella (cathmike AT xnet.com): The term RIO is now used
as a way of describing some of the more indescribable musics created
today by artists that are influenced to some degree by the original
RIO artists. The "new" RIO influenced bands would include U Totem,
Thinking Plaugue, 5UU's, Lacrymosa, and maybe Banda Elastika. So
when someone says that a new band sound like RIO, you know that maybe
be influenced by RIO or are just weird/elcectic or just strange.

See Phil Zampino's (zampino AT squidco.com) Web site dedicated to
RIO artists and labels at:

<URL:http://www.panix.com/~zampino/rer/>


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       


How many versions of Gentle Giant's 
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Free Hand*

 have been on CD, and what are the differences?
----------------------------------------------------------------------


From barrett AT cs.umass.edu (Daniel Barrett): There have been 4
versions on CD: two from One Way Records in the USA, and two from
Terrapin Trucking, a.k.a. Road Goes On Forever (RGOF), in Great
Britain.  Summary: there are large differences between the first
three versions, and the Terrapin/RGOF versions are acknowledged by
fans to be the best.

Now for the longer answer. The first CD came from One Way Records,
number CDL 57338.  This disc was mastered from inferior American
master tapes and sounds very muffled.  If you turn up your treble
control, the disc sounds almost normal, but overall the sound is
mediocre.

In response to complaints from fans, One Way recalled all the old
CD's from stores, sought out better master tapes, and rereleased
*Free Hand* with the SAME identification number, CDL 57338.  It is
not possible to distinguish between the first and second *Free Hand*
CD's from the packaging.  The only way to tell by eye is to open
the package and examine the code number stamped on the disc rim.
The old disc says "AM6/CDL 57338", and the new disc says "ESK 1 <010>
CDL 57338".

The second One Way disc has much better sound. The master tape that
One Way used, however, is a very strange one.  It is not the same
tape that was used for any previous release of the album, and the
music is actually different from the original! In "Time To Kill",
Derek Schulman sings some of the lines instead of Ray Schulman;
for example, `And with no questions then, he finds his way'. In
"On Reflection", the drums come in half a verse earlier than in the
original. And worst of all, at the climax of "On Reflection", when
the full band comes crashing in, the drums are barely audible! This
CD is worth owning because it is different from any previous release,
but it is notrepresentative version of the album.

Next, Terrapin/RGOF released their first *Free Hand* disc,
identification number RGF CD 1004. It uses the correct master tapes
and has very good sound quality. I find it a little bit bass-heavy,
but it is much better than the other versions. Some fans complained
that the disc had too much hiss, and Terrapin/RGOF remastered it to
remove hiss, giving the disc a new identification number, TRUCKCD
004. Reportedly, the differences between the two Terrapin/RGOF
discs are minor. If you own only 1 *Free Hand* CD, get this one.


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       
--------------------
This FAQ is maintained by Phil Kime(Philip AT kime.org.uk). Comments,
questions, and criticisms are positively always welcome.  This text
was taken in part from the previous versions of this FAQ, which
were maintained by Scott McMahan, and Mike Borella. The FAQs were
brought into being originally through the sterling efforts of Malcolm
Humes. Many thanks go to all of these gentlemen for their excellent
work.--------------------
::Subscription Rates::
  $4/year (US) $6/year (outside US)
::Frequency::
  Quarterly
::Comments::
  Adventurous and excellent newsletter

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Exposé
::Editor/Contact::
  Peter Thelen
::Address::
  6167 Jarvis Ave #150, Newark, CA
::Email::
  ptlk AT netcom.com
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/1831/expo-nl.html>
::Phone::
  (510) 791-6186
::Scope/Musical Domain::
  "Exploring the Boundaries of Rock"
::Language::
  English
::Format::
  Newsletter, A4, 60pp+, BW
::Subscription Rates::
  Price format is (Single issue/4 issue subscription). USA -
  ($4.50/$18), please see web page for overseas and other prices.
::Frequency::
  Quarterly
::Comments::
  
Exposé is carried by: Wayside Music, Ranjit, Musea, Of Sound Mind
(?), Sights  Sounds, and occasionally Ultima Thule. Also by the
following California record store: Rhino (Claremont). It's also
carried by "Le FreeSon" in Montreal, Québec. Now also carried by:
Rush-Mor Music (Milwaukee), Vinyl Solutions (Grand Rapids), Twisted
Village (Cambridge), World Disque (Tokyo), Record Runner (Brazil)


	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Synthesis
::Address::
  219 Napfle St., Philadelphia PA 19111
::Scope/Musical Domain::
  Electronic oriented
::Language::
  English
::Subscription Rates::
  $5 per 4 issues, $7 overseas.
::Comments::
  Electronic oriented.	Claims not to be interested in art rock
  but has had info on Kit Watkins.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Lullabye Letter
::Editor/Contact::
  c/o North American Robert Wyatt Apreciation Society
::Address::
  9690 NE Adolf Rd., Newberg OR 97132-7000
::Scope/Musical Domain::
  Robert Wyatt
::Language::
  English
::Comments::
  Grass roots zine on Wyatt.  Supposedly very good.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Option
::Address::
  2345 Westwood Blvd Suite 2, Los Angeles CA 90064
::Scope/Musical Domain::
  Independent acts, including progressive artists, mostly Canterbury
  and RIO
::Language::
  English
::Subscription Rates::
  US$15.45 per 6 issues

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Progression
::Editor/Contact::
  John Collinge
::Address::
  PO Box 7164, Lowell, MA 01852
::Scope/Musical Domain::
  Progressive (mostly mainstream)
::Language::
  English
::Subscription Rates::
  4 issues per year. US, Puerto Rico and Canada - $18. Rest of
  world - $23. Sample issues $5 for US etc., $6 for rest of world.
::Comments::
  About the publication: PROGRESSION is an 80-120 page, quarterly
  magazine devoted to news, reviews, interviews and features
  involving progressive rock artists new and old, in the United
  States and overseas. We cover the so called "mainstream"
  progressive acts such as IQ, Yes, ELP, Jethro Tull Marillion,
  etc. We include occasional features and reviews on more "serious"
  prog artists such as Univers Zero and Richard Pinhas.  And we
  strive to highlight emerging talent in the progressive realm:
  Echolyn, Prometheus, Ozric Tentacles, Episode, Cairo, Djam Karet,
  Ancient Vision, Anglagard, Witsend, Kalaban, plus many, many
  others. A typical edition of the magazine includes exclusive,
  in-depth interviews with progressive rock artists (past issues have
  featured the likes of Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, Jordan Rudess,
  Mastermind, Änglagård, Bill Bruford, Marillion's Mark Kelly,
  Nik Turner's hawkwind, etc.), plus dozens ofconcert and album
  reviews, tour intineraries and information on new album and video
  release. Photographs accompany the articles. Ample advertising
  provides a forum for those wishing to buy and sell progressive
  recordings and other items.

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

::Publication::
  Tone Clusters
::Editor/Contact::
  Ken Egbert
::Address::
  5648 Riverdale Av., Suite 105, Bronx, NY 10471
::Phone::
  718 562 4982
::Language::
  English
::Comments::
  Ken is a former employee of Pantasia	Mad Platters, and has
  produced TC sporadicly for 15 or 20 YEARS!! Although thoroughly
  diverse in his interests, his particular love is the Canterbury
  scene, groups like Caravan, Hatfield, etc. Very knowledgeable in
  the English, French, German, Italian,  domestic prog scene of the
  70's	80's, and continues to expose folks to new  interesting
  stuff. Sample copies $2.50  well worth it. You may also phone
  through the Nowhere music store (see FAQ 6) at 914 962 6274 or
  mail through said store at nowhere247 AT aol.com

	       ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
	       

FromMike Borella: The basic publication list data is mostly courtsey
of Musea, via Yannick Lallement (lallemen AT ese-metz.fr or lallemen
AT loria.fr). Many thanks for their sharing this information so
that others can benefit from it. Also, Kurt Rongey, who runs the
Long Dark Music label, compiled much of the list. The comments
and information is mostly originally from him, though some of the
information was condensed or paraphrased.
--------------------
This FAQ is maintained by Phil Kime(Philip AT kime.org.uk). Comments,
questions, and criticisms are positively always welcome.  This text
was taken in part from the previous versions of this FAQ, which
were maintained by Scott McMahan, and Mike Borella. The FAQs were
brought into being originally through the sterling efforts of Malcolm
Humes. Many thanks go to all of these gentlemen for their excellent
work.--------------------
  (01382) 736702
::Comments::
  
Their main specialty is electronic and new age synth music: what
they don't know about the availability of T.Dream, Kit Watkins,
Gandalf, etc, etc, isn't worth knowing.  They are also very helpful
with all manner of progressive stuff, including Gong, Canterbury,
Bruford, Camel, etc, etc.  These were the guys who, when I called
up about a CD of Pink Floyd's Relics, instantly knew that it was
only ever available from Australia, its legality was in some doubt,
and has been out of print for about two years. They will get imports
from anywhere in the world, and if you're thinking about a Japanese
import, they will often have a good idea whether it's likely to soon
become available from elsewhere, and therefore be much cheaper if you
wait a while. Their prices are not discounted, and they do charge
postage, but they give a good service (recorded delivery within
the UK), and always seem to know how to try and get obscure stuff.

Very good outlet, reliable with reasonable prices (for Britain
:-). This months ad shows releases by Anyone's Daughter, Asia Minor,
Cannata, Circus, Cirkel, The Enid, Ivory, Kaipa, Kayak, Mercy Train,
Mythos, Pendragon, Red Jasper, SRC and Summer Indoors all for around
$17.00.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Compact Huset
::Address::
  Austmannav. 9, P.O.Box 1756, 5501 Haugesund, Norway
::Phone::
  +47 52 71 61 70
::Fax::
  +47 52 72 98 19
::Comments::
  They deal in all kinds of music, if interested in special things,
  talk to Arnstein (manager) who know most about everything. They
  are very helpful. They release 2 main catalogs and 10 updates
  pr. year. Catalogues can be subscribed for 5-6 pounds for one
  year, 9-10 for two years. Most of the catalog is printed in
  norwegian, but there are some english columns as well. Their
  normal prices are around 13-14 pounds of which 18.02% can be
  deducted (norw. VAT). Special offers, discounts etc. are also
  obtainable. Orders for foreign customers are at minimum 500
  nok (45-47 pounds), orders can be phoned, faxed or mailed
  (snail-mail). Note that it is the cost of the total order
  that is important, not the actual cost (if any records are
  unavailable). They prefer payment by creditcards (VISA, AMERICAN
  EXPRESS and MASTERCARD), but pre-payment is also accepted through
  a proforma invoice. If things are out of stock, and therefore the
  delivery takes some time, they will inform you on your order-status
  if you call them. A very helpful bunch of people.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Cranium Music
::Address::
  PO Box 103-09, Te Rapa, Hamilton, New Zealand
::Phone::
  +64 7 8299 840
::Fax::
  +64 7 8299 980
::Email::
  richard AT cranium.co.nz
::WWW::
  <URL:http://http://www.cranium.co.nz/>
::Comments::
  Import and sell Progressive, Space Rock,Psychedelic, Electronic
  Experimental music. Stock totals some 1000 items with 99% being
  CD's. Labels that we deal with: Acme, Cyclops, Delerium, Dovetail,
  Emergency Broadcast System, Mystic Stones, Voiceprint (all UK)
  Crimsonic, Foxtrot, Xotic Mind (Sweden), Erdenklang, Manikin,
  Music Is Intelligence (Germany), Art Sublime, Lasers Edge, Wild
  Places (USA) plus Spalax (France). We are sole distributors for
  some of the above labels we are starting to get some shops stocking
  Prog etc.  By the way I think we can SAFELY say we are the largest
  stockists of Prog, Psychedelic etc in NZ (and POSSIBLY Australia).

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Delerium Records/The Freak Emporium
::Address::
  PO Box 1288, Gerrards Cross, Bucks, SL9 9YB, UK.
::Tel::
  +44 (0)1753 893008
::Fax::
  +44 (0)1753 892879
::Email::
  delerium AT mail.bogo.co.uk
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.delerium.co.uk/>
::Comments::
  Extensive mail-order list combining new releases and
  reissues. Concentrates mainly on psychedelic and underground
  titles, ltd edition reissues from 60s through 90s. Send E:Mail, SAE
  or IRC for current list. Updated lists of new stock also available
  on request.  Our tastes are quite diverse: Prog-rock, Space-Rock,
  Kraut-Rock, Psychedelia, Garage, Folk-Psych, Ambient, Rave -
  and everypoint inbetween. We also run our own label, dedicated to
  releasing new progressive/psychedelic and underground music by new
  artists; and a Porcupine Tree information service. Credit cards
  accepted, but there is a 5% surcharge. Order turn-round is usually
  24 to 48 hours, and goods are dispatched the same day payment is
  received. Double CD "Pick  Mix" label sampler available for £5 UK,
  £6 Europe, £7 (or $12 US Cash) elsewhere. Cheques/PO's payable to
  "Delerium Records".

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Diffusion I Media
::Address::
  4487 Rue Adam, Montreal (QC), Canada H1V 1T9
::Comments::
  Carry some Canadian emusic indie artists like Michel Redolfi,
  Bernard Parmaging and others. Only accept US postal MO, IMO or
  check drawn on a Canadian bank.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Discipline Global Mobile
::Address::
  PO Box 1533, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5ER
::Fax::
  (+44) (01722) 781042
::Fax::
  (+44) (01722) 780165
::Email::
  DGM AT disciplinegm.demon.co.uk
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.discipline.co.uk/>
::Comments::
  Official outlet for King Crimson/Robert Fripp projects in the UK
  as part of Fripp's new distributed distribution project. They
  now take credit card orders by email for which they need your
  full name (as apearing on the card), full postal address, card
  number and card expiry date. You can also order by credit card
  from the World Wide Web page given above. A very nice Web site now
  with lots of information on DGM artists, full ordering facility,
  news etc. Well worth looking at.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  G.A.S. - Gong Appreciation Society
::Address::
  PO Box 871, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9FE, UK
::Comments::
  GAS in the UK carries a number of tapes of rare Gong and Gong
  related folks, LPs, CDs, tshirts, posters, lyrics, newsletters,
  tour info and other goodies. Also see the US GAS listing above.
  As of 1990, GAS Membership costs 8 pounds per year. You receive
  atape of unreleased material, a discount of 10% on anything
  ordered, and quarterly newsletters to which you are welcome
  to contribute.  I suspect rates may have changed. I'd recommend
  sending an IRC asking for more info.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Electronic Dreams
::Address::
  c/o Clive Littlewood, Silverton Villa, Higher Bugle, St. Austell,
  Cornwall, PL26 8PY, UK
::Phone::
  +44 (01726) 850232
::Fax::
  +44 (01726) 69135
::Comments::
  Phone contact should ask for "Cleve" and aim to phone between
  5.30 and 6.30pm. Electronic Dreams is a label and outlet for new
  electronic music.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Eventyr Record
::Address::
  PO Box 12319 - 00135, Rome, Italy
::Phone::
  +39-6-3326 2264
::Fax::
  
::Email::
  eventyr AT farm-it.com+39-6-3326 2654
::Comments::
  
Mail order home of the Progland label. Also carries things from  the
following labels: Seventh, Ageness, Ciclo, Briskeby, Kalemegdan,
WMMS, Mezzo Disctribution, Progressive Rock Worldwide, Vinyl Top
and Ars Mundi.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  GFT
::Address::
  33a Tolworth Park Road, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7RL
::Phone::
  +44 (0181) 339 9965 (Monday to Friday  answerphone at weekends)
::Fax::
  +44 (0181) 399 0070
::Email::
  info AT gft-cyclops.co.uk
::Email::
  sales AT gft-cyclops.co.uk
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.gft-cyclops.co.uk>
::Comments::
  Good reputation. Run by Malcolm Parker who is really friendly
  on the phone and very helpful generally. In addition to being
  a pleasant place to order from, their prices are superb (modulo
  the UK!)  ... I have not seen a cheaper place in the UK. Their
  catalogue has a good range, nothing too esoteric, plus special
  sections devoted to Canterbury, `Head' music etc. P and P rates are
  very good indeed and they seem to send orders of 3+ CDs recorded
  delivery. Very quickly too ... I often get next-day service even
  if I ring in the afternoon! They have a special offers list that
  includes currently favoured material that's offered at an all-in
  rate which includes P and P. They also send out an update with
  end-of-line items. A very good mail order outlet.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Tim Holden
::Address::
  139 Hawkfield Crescent NW, Calgary, Canada T3G 1Z4
::Phone::
  (403) 241-9073  (5-9 PM PST)
::Comments::
  Tim is a guy who deals mainly in used LPs and works shows in
  his area, he's got good contacts with a lot of other dealers
  collectors in his area, and seems to have no trouble finding rare
  and out-of-print stuff if you give him a little time. He found
  me 6 o/p albums by Maneige over the course of the last year, and
  found the whole FM catalog for a friend of mine, including the
  rare first album "Headroom", all for very reasonable prices. His
  service is extremely good, turn-around-time is quick, and he's a
  really friendly chap to talk with on the phone. Recommended for
  o/p stuff.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Mike Lloyd Music Mail Order
::Address::
  14-20 Brunswick Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 1DR, UK
::Phone::
  (01782) 269012
::Comments::
  
Formerly known as Lotus Records, these guys have specialized catalogs
for Canterbury, Zeuhl (Magma), and other stuff.

I've only ordered from them once, but I got both Paga CDs as well
as the 2CD version of Magma Live.  These three discs are nearly
impossible to get in the US, but I called Mike Lloyd's and got
them with no problem. Shipping did take about a month, but it
was well worth the wait. When you call, ask for Andy or Clarey,
as they handle the mail order division.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Mirage
::Address::
  612 Southmead Road, Filton, Bristol, BS12 7RF, UK
::Comments::
  Last I checked (several years ago) this was a one man operation,
  Martin K Reed.  He has a decent variety of British indie electronic
  musicians like Ian Boddy, Steve Frost and Mark Shreeve.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Musea
::Address::
  68 La Tinchotte, 57117 Retonfey, France
::Fax::
  (33) 87366473
::Email::
  musea AT id-net.fr
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.id-net.fr/musea/>
::Comments::
  
Musea is a label with over 200 productions to its name including
many prestigious groups such as Minimum Vital, Atoll, and Pulsar. The
Musea catalog has a thousand titles including independent productions
from all over the world as well as imports from Japan, Brazil,
Korea, Italy, Germany, Poland, etc.. The label also publishes the
French-language Musea magazine.

Musea take credit card orders by email and aim for a 3 to 5 day turn
around. They have an excellent Web catalogue and ordering service.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  The Music Specialists
::Address::
  50 Raffles Place, #03-011 Shell Tower, Singapore 0104
::Phone::
  (065) 734-3775
::Fax::
  (065) 224-2785
::Comments::
  Carries a lot of live and bootleg CDs. Similar to the CD Connection
  in Germany, but supposedly more reliable per one friend who has
  used both. They'll send lists for $2.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Normal Mail Order
::Address::
  Bonner Talweg 276, 5300 Bonn 1, Germany
::Phone::
  228-22 06 55
::Fax::
  228-22 16 56
::Comments::
  Excellent selection of bands on tiny labels. Lots of really obscure
  punk, Australian, New Zealand and German bands.  They are very
  prompt at answering fax enquiries and will probably mail you a
  catalogue for free. They are also capable of locating out of date
  obscure vinyl and CD's.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Ohrwaschl
::Address::
  Papenheim str. 11, 80335, Munich, Germany
::Fax::
  089 5504112
::Email::
  ohrwaschl AT t-online.de
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.c-lab.de/~rms/ff/ohrwaschl.html>
::Comments::
  
The famous Krautrock label's mail order outlet. They specialise in,
surprisingly, Krautrock, 70s progressive and world-music.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Orage Rock Progressif Enr.
::Address::
  C.P. 58058 Québec, Québec, Canada, G2B 5H4
::Phone::
  (418) 847-1116
::Comments::
  This is a very convenient source for Canadian prog. rock fans,
  with reasonable prices (in Canadian dollars).

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Store::
  Pan y Musica
::Address::
  C/ Ros de Olano 12, 08012, Barcelona, Spain
::Phone::
  (93) 237-6568
::Fax::
  (93) 415-0219
::Email::
  pany AT nexus.es
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.thesaurus.net/panymusica/>
::Comments::
  Pan Y Musica's online mail order site.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Pastel Blue
::Email::
  Mike AT pastel.demon.co.uk
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.demon.co.uk/pastel/>
::Comments::
  
Here is some of the blurb you get when you send the body "help"
to the above email adress: Pastel Blue is a mail order CD and
video shop, located in England.  At the last count we had 35000
CDs, 3500 CD singles, 4200 videos and 900 games in our database,
which you can search by email using commands described below. We
accept orders by email and payment by cash, cheque or credit card,
and can export to any country.

Large collection (incl. > 100.000 american import cd's), good
prices and shipping rates, reliable, but quite slow (they don't have
anything in stock). On their list there's p.e. Anglagard, Brand X,
Happy the Man, Gryphon, National Health, Yezda Urfa, ...


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Store::
  Philippe Collignon
::Address::
  6 Avenue Du Site, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
::Phone::
  2-7725680 (10am ro 10pm)
::Fax::
  2-7711222
::Comments::
  
This guy is one to best places to head for that really rare LP you
can't find (especially European). He's expensive, certainly, but has
the largest stock (and catalogues) of rare and wonderful vinyl I've
come across.  Covers all rock from the mid-60s on, but with a slight
emphasis on psych and prog. He also does catalogues of CD issues.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Store::
  Piccadilly Records
::Address::
  5/7 Brown Street, Manchester, M2 1DA, UK
::Phone::
  +44 (0161) 839 8008
::Comments::
  Not actually visited this outlet but I have had things bought for
  me from there. Said things were quite obscure and had hand-written
  stickers giving details of genre and links to other artists which
  impressed.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Possible Productions
::Address::
  Avenue Sana Fe 3044-1, 1425 Capital Federal, Buenos Aires,
  Argentina
::Fax::
  010-54-1-8211372
::Comments::
  "Official" outlet for King Crimson/Robert Fripp projects in South
  America.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Recrec Laden+Mail
::Address::
  Rotwandstr 64, 8004, Zurich, Switzerland
::Phone::
  +41-1 - 291 46 60
::Fax::
  +41-1 - 291 46 62
::Comments::
  The RecRec label has lots of quirky European releases like
  Fred Frith, Bruniferd, Nimal and so on. They run a respectable
  shop front and, from the same address, a mail order service.
  Obviously they have all the RecRec releases in stock, but they have
  a generally good selection.  Their catalogue is not free. It's
  a paperback about an inch thick and full of amusing opinions.
  They are probably only amusing if you can read German.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  RéR Megacorp
::Address::
  79 Beulah Road, Thornton Heath, Surrey, CR7 8JG, UK
::Phone::
  +44 (0181) 771 1063
::Fax::
  +44 (0181) 771 3138
::Email::
  jf23 AT dial.pipex.com
::Comments::
  Label/business set up by central RIO musician/composer Chris
  Cutler in 1978 that's still going strong. The RéR label covers a
  huge diversity of musics from all over the world. What the label
  covers and what the mail-order side stocks is decided purely on
  Cutler's perception of musical merit. It therefore doesn't "carry
  labels" as such. Issues a catalogue with frequent updates. There
  is a lot of obscure and fantastic music in the RéR catalogue
  ... highly recommended that you take a look at it.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Sonic Bilby
::Address::
  PO Box 884, Mt Waverly, Vic, 3149, Australia
::Email::
  sonique AT mail.pcmicro.com.au
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.pcmicro.com.au/~Sonique/sb>
::Comments::
  
My mail order business was formed with the aim of promoting
and distributing international progressive, psychedelic, and
similar recording artists in Australia for the lowest possible
price. Undertake promotion, distribution etc. of music in addition
to maintaining a mail order catalogue.


               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Stanislav Hapla
::Address::
  Jungmannova 7/692, 736 01 Havirov-Mesto, Czechoslovakia
::Comments::
  A possible source for East European CD releases.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Super Records M.B. s.r.l
::Address::
  Centro Commerciale S. Maria Novella, Firenze, 50123, Italy
::Phone::
  +39-55-2349526 / +39-55-287592
::Fax::
  +39-55-2349527
::Email::
  superecords AT superecords.com
::WWW::
  <URL:http://www.superecords.com>
::Comments::
  Alternative music store: from vinyl rarities to new releases,
  collector's item, records auction sales, import/export from all
  over the world. Credit card on line payment. Progressive rock,
  Canterbury rock, Beat  Psychedelia, Prog-metal, Kraut rock, Hard
  Heavy, Death  Black, NWOBHM,... All the vinyl rarities that you
  think you'd lost, on line sale.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Taxim Records
::Address::
  Postfach 10 11 43, 2900 Bremen 1, Germany
::Comments::
  I originally got referred to Taxim when I wrote directly to Line
  Records looking for a distributor for their product. I've ordered
  from them a bunch of times and have always had very good luck (they
  accept major credit cards as well, which simplifies things a lot
  when ordering from overseas). They apparently no longer carry the
  entire Line label and as such I've had difficulty finding things in
  their catalog that I couldn't find from a domestic distributor, so
  I haven't ordered anything in a year or so. Prices are very good.
  Catalog is a glossy mag, all in german.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Terrapin Trucking Company
::Address::
  2 Park Road, Crouch End, London, N8 8TD, UK
::Phone::
  (0181) 342-8851
::Fax::
  (0181) 341-5174
::Comments::
  I regularly fax orders to them using my Mastercard - if they
  don't have it they don't charge for it!  Shipping to America costs
  about $3.00 for the first disc and $1.50 for each subsequent one.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Ultima Thule
::Address::
  1 Conduit Street, Leicester, LE2 0JN, UK
::Phone::
  +44 (0116) 2854545
::Fax::
  +44 (0116) 2854555
::WWW::
  <URL:http://web.ukonline.co.uk/ultimathule-audion>
::Email::
  ultimathule-audion AT ukonline.co.uk
::Comments::
  Ultima Thule is a store and mailorder business affiliated with
  Audion Magazine and thus run by two extremely knowledgeable
  gentlemen. Large A4 catalogue every year with a great deal in
  it. They send out update lists regularly to active customers. You
  need to subscribe (not expensive) to these if you are not an
  active customer. A superb selection, covering the whole range of
  progressive and new music. A little expensive compared with other
  UK outlets. They take just about any form of payment and offer
  various mail schemes including listen-and-return if you do not like
  it and all of this internationally. If you live in the UK, next day
  delivery is the norm. I often order by phone in the afternoon and
  receive goods the next morning. Very highly recommended indeed.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Vinyl-Virus
::Address::
  P.O. Box 1164, 7526 U-Weiher, Germany
::Comments::
  Supposedly a source of bootlegs - I saw the address in a post
  to rec.music.gdead where someone was asking for any more info on
  this place.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

::Name::
  Voiceprint
::Address::
  P.O. Box 5, Derwentside, County Durham, UK, DH9 7HR
::Phone::
  (0191) 512 1103
::Email::
  Rob AT vprint.demon.co.uk
::Comments::
  Mainly new Canterbury-related releases. Including stuff by Daevid
  Allen, Robert Wyatt, Jakko Jakszyk and Rick Biddulph.

               ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
               

The Frederic Dannen quote at the top of this file is from a very
interesting book about the music industry and the "Powers broker and
fast money inside the music business" and the greed and ambition and
occasional mob and other illegal connections of the industry. It's
pretty ugly stuff and worth reading for a better understanding of
why the artist is often the victim of the industry. - Malcolm Humes
--------------------
This FAQ is maintained by Phil Kime(Philip AT kime.org.uk). Comments,
questions, and criticisms are positively always welcome.  This text
was taken in part from the previous versions of this FAQ, which
were maintained by Scott McMahan, and Mike Borella. The FAQs were
brought into being originally through the sterling efforts of Malcolm
Humes. Many thanks go to all of these gentlemen for their excellent
work.--------------------

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Last Update March 27 2014 @ 02:11 PM