Concerto Maximo cover

Concerto Maximo

Pendragon · 2009

153 min · 17 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling odyssey of complex arrangements, rich melodies, and philosophical lyrics that embodies the essence of modern progressive rock.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Wishing Well — This track stands out as an epic journey through dynamic shifts and emotive storytelling, encapsulating Pendragon's signature sound with its lush instrumentation and mature themes.
  • →
    A Man of Nomadic Traits — Clocking in at over eleven minutes, this track exemplifies the band's capacity for extended compositions that explore complex musical ideas while maintaining emotional depth.
  • →
    Sister Bluebird — This piece highlights a more melodic side of the band, combining thoughtful lyrics with captivating melodies that linger long after the song ends.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • epic narratives that unfold slowly
  • immersive storytelling across long tracks
  • rich arrangements for deep listening
  • emotive vocals with intricate melodies

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer quick, standalone songs
  • seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Concerto Maximo marks Pendragon's return after a seven-year hiatus following their previous album, Believe, released in 2005. By this time, they had solidified their status as stalwarts of the progressive rock genre, continuing to evolve while remaining true to their roots. This album also represents a culmination of their artistic growth over the decades since their formation in the early 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors
Marillion· Camel· IQ

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • The Wishing Well

    The narrative shifts from introspection to an urgent plea as it builds towards a cathartic climax, capturing a sense of longing and hope.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Walls of Babylon 5:05
  • 2 A Man of Nomadic Traits 11:32
  • 3 The Wishing Well 17:41
  • 4 Eraserhead 8:40
  • 5 Total Recall 5:56
  • 6 Nostradamus 5:31
  • 7 Learning Curve 7:19
  • 8 Breaking the Spell 8:30
  • 9 Sister Bluebird 7:54

Disc 2

  • 1 The Shadow 9:07
  • 2 The Freak Show 4:11
  • 3 The Voyager 11:05
  • 4 It's Only Me 8:00
  • 5 Masters of Illusion 12:45
  • 6 The King of the Castle 4:53
  • 7 And We'll Go Hunting Deer 5:11
  • 8 Queen of Hearts 19:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata