Cliffhanger - Not to Be or Not to Be? 1996 Netherlands

I've spoken of Cliffhanger (and NoVox) before here on UMR. Quite possibly the most unheralded progressive rock group from the 90s. They are traditionally lumped in with the neo prog crowd, but their sound doesn't match. And it seems they are judged through that genre's lens rather than via an older outlook. Cliffhanger are influenced heavily by the usual suspects like Genesis and Yes, just as Marillion, IQ, et al, but their instrument and production choices point more to the early 70s. The only comparable band from this era would be Simon Says (Sweden). Their overall sound is closer to Anglagard than Pendragon, let's put it that way. Not to Be or Not to Be? is Cliffhanger's sophomore album, and probably their best. Certainly their most adventurous work. If you're just learning of this group for the first time, grab an online sample to validate, and then scoop up one of those cheap copies that are still available.

Ownership: CD: 1996 Musea. Excellent new CD presentation with full lyrics and artsy photos.