PRESTO BALLET – Dreamentia (2025) *HQ*

320_1 /// 320_2 /// HQ

Founded by Metal Church guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof in 2005, PRESTO BALLET combines the melodic and harmonic old school aspects with the neo-progressive rock feel of today. While their sound is often compared to the early works of Kansas, Rush, and Yes, Presto Ballet still maintains its own identity, much more ‘rocking‘ I’d say.
In regards to the musical direction of the band’s new album “Dreamentia”, Vanderhoof comments, “Dreamentia is the continuing story of Andy Rottman. His story began on the album Relic Of The Modern World. It is the story of a regular guy who has gotten fed up with technology and decides to disconnect from modern life and all the digital and cyber way of living. His few friends tell him this will be just like “disappearing”.
And when he gets rid of his cell phone, his computer, social forms of media, and disappears. Dreamentia is the story of what happens to Andy after his disappearance. This is what I like to call “concept album” following the template of my favorite ’70s progressive rock heroes. I figured Presto Ballet needed one as well. Besides, its really a lot of fun!!”

Musically “Dreamentia” incorporates a variety of styles, all progressive, with a vintage ’70s feel in arrangements but a modern, punchy production. While Vanderhoof guitar work is far from Metal Church’s thrashy work, still have some bite.
But Presto Ballet’s stellar instrument are the ivory: the vintage sounds of Kerry Shacklett’s keyboards, analog synths, mellotron, are to die for. As usual, Scott Albright pristine voice (at places recalling Robin McAuley) is in top form.
Regarding the concept, it’s pretty shocking (and good) to hear about cell phones, computers, modern technology, etc, in juxtaposition to the classic ’70s progressive rock sound by the band.
A stupendous new album from Presto Ballet, with a great story as well.

01 – Dreamentia Theme
02 – Finding Light
03 – Into The Silent City
04 – Mumbletypeg
05 – The God Machine
06 – Fanatic In The Attic
07 – Meet Old Harry
08 – Quiet Prayers Of War
09 – Biloxis
10 – Thinning The Veil
11 – Giving Up The Dangers

Kurdt Vanderhoof – guitars
Scott Albright – vocals
Kerry Shacklett – keyboards, mellotron
Bobby Ferkovich – bass
Charlie Lorme – drums

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