Tempest-Tempest (1973)

Once the first version of Colosseum disbanded, two of its members, drummer John Hiseman and bassist Mark Clarke, joined Allan Holdsworth and Paul Williams (guitar and keyboards) to found the heavy prog band Tempest, releasing the magnificent albums "Tempest" (1973) and "Living Fear" (1974). Released by the Bronze label, the band's debut was astonishing, showcasing the virtuosity and skill of its members in an overwhelming way. The rhythms, composition, and melodies, along with impeccable production, made this first album one of the best considered progressive rock releases of 1973. Highlights on this debut album included the progressive "Upon Tomorrow", the hard rock "Strangeher", the heavy prog "Gorgon", and the hypnotic "Dark House". A year later, "Living In Fear" was released, by which time the band had been reduced to a trio, with Holdsworth and Williams having left and guitarist and keyboardist Ollie Halsall completing the lineup. This second album, while not reaching the heights of its predecessor, maintained a consistently high level of quality, featuring standout tracks such as "Stargazer", "Dance To My Tune", "Waiting For a Miracle", and "Time Around", all powerful examples of progressive rock.