Trace’s self-titled debut is a landmark in the progressive rock landscape—an album that pulses with technical brilliance and daring ambition. Helmed by keyboard maestro Rick van der Linden after his departure from Ekseption, Trace (6) fuses classically-infused rock with intricate jazz inflections, carving out a sound both cerebral and surprisingly accessible. Each track is a testament to the trio’s musicianship: swirling organ passages, nimble bass lines, and dynamic drumming intertwine in compositions that shift effortlessly from baroque flourishes to thunderous rock motifs.
What sets Trace apart is its fearless sense of exploration. The album pays homage to Western classical roots—think Bach and Ravel—while decisively pushing boundaries with inventive use of synthesizers and elaborate arrangements. For listeners who appreciate the sonic adventures of Emerson, Lake & Palmer or the sophistication of Focus, this record offers a fresh yet historically aware perspective on the genre. Owning Trace isn’t just adding another progressive rock album to your shelf; it’s securing a piece of the era’s most adventurous spirit, where technique and imagination collide in exhilarating fashion.
Track List:
A1 - Gaillarde - 6:07
A2 - Gare Le Corbeau - 2:02
A3 - Gaillarde - 4:55
A4 - The Death Of Ace - 5:13
A5 - The Escape Of The Piper - 3:08
A6 - Once - 4:11
B1 - Progression - 12:02
B2 - A Memory - 3:54
B3 - The Lost Past - 3:27
B4 - A Memory - 1:40
B5 - Final Trace - 3:50