Flash (feat. Peter Banks & Tony Kaye)

Flash's all-too-brief recording career kicked off with this 1972 self-titled album, which brims with complex rhythms, instrumental pyrotechnics, and an overarching musical ambition typical of the era’s prog-rock combos. Ex-Yes guitarist Peter Banks spearheaded the group with the aid of vocalist Colin Carter (Pete Bardens’ Camel), bassist Ray Bennett (Gun), and drummer Mike Hough. Crucial to this debut’s sonic richness are keyboard contributions from Barnes’ fellow Yes refugee Tony Kaye (who soon left the fold to form his own band, Badger). Flash lives up to its name with the blazing, intricate opening track “Small Beginnings,” a Top 30 U.S. single. “Morning Haze” sparkles with Banks’ acoustic guitar work and Hough’s simmering percussion, providing a quiet lead-in to the jazzy flourishes and high-flying optimism of “Children of the Universe.” The band stretches out for “Dreams of Heaven,” combining classically influenced passages with rousing rock choruses. “The Time It Takes” finds Carter delivering his most expressive vocal as the band lays down evocative pastel tones. Flash's first outing is worthy of discovery by any prog-rock devotee.