As with the previous year, all of the bands that make the cut for Nearfest are excellent musicians and performers; still, I personally didn't think that the 2006 Nearfest lineup was strong enough as America's premiere Prog festival. though I do like Magents, I thought that Hawkwind (don't get me wrong- the band is quite good), wasn't headliner material for a prog festival. And magma, excellent band, but I saw them and enjoyed it. Regardless the Nearfest 06' show was received well.
The same folks at Nearfest put on the third of their Progressive legends Showcase, with mixed results, but getting Allan holdsworth to perform was a stroke of genius.
2006 showcased Tony LLevin and hatfield and the North, and this year three fusion bands completed the show: One Shot, Secret Oyster and Mr. Holdsworth.
Sadly to say, the visuals were the same old routine- but again, most fusion bands don't desire or need elaborate lighting effects.
Most of these shots were scaled down to 25% their original size so detail may be lacking.
One Shot,- an off-shoot of the french progrockers Magma opened up the show. Excellent musicians, they played a loose jazz fusion showcasing much of the magma influence (without the vocals of course). A nice way of beginning.
Secret Oyster from Denmark, was the most rockish of the three fusion acts that evening. Though I enjoyed their set, I couldn't (and still can't) understand, how could a band that hasn't played in 30 years, and had only practiced a few days be part of this festival when so many seasoned jazz groups were not chosen. I'm either thinking monetary reasons or doing someone a nice favor. Politics aside, the band performed very well for a group who hasn't been together long. The music wasn't demanding, especially the drumming, but it was enjpyable. Secret oyster dd have the most lively set.
Allan Holdsworth's performance seems a little self-focused, but it was still amazing because of his mastery of the guitar. Jimmy Jognson perked on bass and Chad wackerman, though almost an over-calculating drummer performed with his usually panache.
it would have been neat to hear Allan play a tune from one or two of his side or prior involvements (UK, Bruford), but his solo material held up quite well. Nice thing is I got to chat with him briefly and he autographed a sketch I did of him. Thanks Allan. cheers.
As with the previous year, all of the bands that make the cut for Nearfest are excellent musicians and performers; still, I personally didn't think that the 2006 Nearfest lineup was strong enough as America's premiere Prog festival. though I do like Magents, I thought that Hawkwind (don't get me wrong- the band is quite good), wasn't headliner material for a prog festival. And magma, excellent band, but I saw them and enjoyed it. Regardless the Nearfest 06' show was received well. 
