WOODEN BADGER has a unique sound that tastefully blends old Progessive Rock with phrasings that I haven’t heard since the likes of Oscar Peterson and Al DiMeola. This CD is bound for greatness for I hear so much that will appeal to so many people notwithstanding musical genre. Imagine my surprise to visit the website to find that Lee Loveless sites Al DiMeola as one of his influences.

Lee’s sound is that of the old YES, SAGA, ZEPPLIN, NAZARETH blended tastefully with the new sounds of Prog with the likes of DREAM THEATER. I cannot begin to leave out the remaining members of the band. Satoru "Psych" Takagi has one of the greatest keyboard sounds I’ve heard in a while. He has successfully bridged the “Techno“ sounds with rock and roll. Paul Adrian "Wonderboy" Villarreal’s voice reminds me of a warmer tones of that of Tommy Shaw. Last but not least the rhythm section hosted by Mark "Snickers" Scott and Mike "Ironhand" Rounds fill this band out with a tight pocket that is always expected in the Progressive rock genre.

This CD spotlights intricate harmonies only heard in Jazz and Gospel recordings lead tracks that have a new sound but remind me very much of recent and old Jazz greats. The guitar sound is thick and aggressive and I think will tempt anyone who likes Petrucci. Everytime I hear Satoru’s sound I think of Peter Gabriel and STYX.

Although I have spent some time comparing this CD with many other bands (all great bands I must admit) I can hear WOODEN BADGER being able to perform at any large venue Progressive concert and on the other side being able to impress Jazz Fusion artists with their intricate musical bridges. A great example of this is in the longest song on the CD „Search“, this song takes you through so many moods and feelings it leaves you wanting more by the time they finish with you.

This CD is a great example of what musicians can accomplish with some hard work put in. WOODEN BADGER has a full length CD being released later this year and it will be welcomed into my list of Prog bands.

When this CD is released I suggest everyone go out and get it. This EP is a great teaser for the future LP. (Online July 29, 2004)