"Hommage Symphonique" is the second part in this short series of cover albums that Think Tank Media released recently (the first one is Lana Lane's "Gemini"). If you have read the Lana Lane review, then you simply know what was annoying in that case. Thankfully, Erik Norlander, doesn't fall in the same pit, as his approach is significantly different. Mr. Norlander has chosen some progressive rock diamonds, some of which are not so popular. What I mean is that he chose songs that we can't call easily "first contact point", if someone would like to get a picture of these bands. Check for example the opening "Conquistador" by Procol Harum, an all time favorite for me and some "dinosaurs" that I know, or the closing "Starless" by King Crimson. In between you can listen to some very good covers, such as "Sir Lancelot And The Black Knight" by Rick Wakeman and "Children Of Sanchez Overture" by Chuck Mangione (well, that was the surprise of the album that made me search for the original). One can't ignore that Mr. Norlander is not highlighting his own skills and that he evades self-exhibition through endless keyboard solos and so on. With this decision he also manages to give the adequate space for expression to the invited musicians. Take a look at his company and you'll understand that Mr. Norlander respected their high level of musicianship and offered them a platform to express their skills. They simply rewarded him with excellent performances that enhance the original works and all together they deliver us a first class cover CD. Without disregarding the contribution of the rest musicians I want to make a note on vocals. Kelly Keeling did an excellent work. I am sure that it was an arduous task, to adjust his performance to these demanding tracks that were originally performed by some distinct and recognizable voices. If you are interested, either in progressive rock with a symphonic aura , or in cover-CDs, then this is an option that you can consider.