CAIRO

CAIRO is a US symphonic progressive rock group from San Francisco, California, active from 1993 to the present. The band is led by keyboard player Mark Robertson and also includes singer Bret Douglas and drummer Jeff Brockman. Its line-up is centred on Robertson, who is the only member named in the verified details, and the group is identified with a sound rooted in symphonic prog.

Style and influences

The band’s music draws on progressive rock and symphonic prog, with clear influence from acts such as Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Yes, Dream Theater, Kansas and Boston. Its sound features high-pitched, layered vocals, heavy guitars, a strong rhythm section and vintage keyboards including Hammond organ, piano and synthesizers. The lyrics are described as thoughtful, and the compositions as large-scale and dramatic.

Releases and appearances

CAIRO has three albums: Cairo, Conflict and Dreams and Time of Legends. The group also appears on the Yes tribute release Tales From Yesterday. Its work places it within the American progressive rock tradition, with a focus on long-form, keyboard-led arrangements.