Kyrie Eleison-The Fountain Beyond The Sunrise (1976)

We are dealing with one of those little-known gems of symphonic rock, highly valued by progheads despite being criticized by some for being mere clones of early Genesis. However, this Austrian band never aspired to that status, although it is more than evident that their influences were the forces led by Peter Gabriel. Founded in 1974, their core was keyboardist Gerald Krampl, who, along with drummer Karl Novotny, managed to weave together symphonic music and rock at their finest, with thick layers of synthesizers and mellotron, atmospheric passages, and moments of great instrumental vigor. In 1976, under the local label Merlin Records, they released their first album, "The Fountain Beyond The Sunrise", which also featured vocalist Michael Schubert, guitarists Manfred Drapela and Gerhard Eder, bassist Norbert Morin, and drummer Otto Singer. The magnificent intro "Out Of Dimension" is filled with nostalgic soundscapes, which contrast sharply with the Genesis-esque title track, a highly elaborate and complex progressive mini-suite. Meanwhile, the expansive "Lenny" becomes the high point of this magnificent work, showcasing an energetic symphony in continuous progression. Undoubtedly one of the best works of progressive rock, were it not for its mediocre production, it would rank among the best albums of the 1970s.