Wow is all I can say about the one-man turned group VAST. I recently discovered VAST through a former co-worker that heard my music and told me that my music sounded like them and I would most likely enjoy them. He was pretty insistent Iand I’m always game for recommendations, so I listed to a copy of their first album. Man, am I glad I listed to him and what a compliment given by my colleague. This is one of my all-time favorite groups and the album “Turquoise and Crimson” is one of the best double albums released.
A boastful claim but VAST combines a beautifully written compositions with a hard rock edge and ambient undertones. The leader Jon Crosby has been composing music since the age of 16 and by 18 had the album Visual Audio Sensory Theatre which was in itself a masterpiece.
Turquoise and Crimson was originally available to fans as a download of 2 separate albums in 2002 and not available in stores. It had a belated official release 2 years later and was marketed as a double album composed of 22 original demos. This album soars to new heights with a unique blend of acoustic and hard rock with an Enigma-esque background vocals and foreign influences.
Even lyrically Crosby’s words add to their mystique touching on subjects of religion and relationships; forcing listeners to not only enjoy the music but also engage in thinking while deciphering the lyrics.
I recommend both the original Visual Audio Sensory Theater album in conjunction with the Turquoise and Crimson albums for anyone wanting something similar yet different. Great music. 
