Thanks goobster, I'm thrilled that you found something to enjoy in all three of these selections. That strong and refined prog element of Animals As Leaders is what really got me hooked. Prog is one of my main loves so you cam expect to see some more of it in future editions of this post. Though at the same time I find it quite a challenge to discover new out-and-out prog that is actually good; it's all too easy for it sound cheesy. I might have a surprise for you next week though... In regards to the compression on the AAL tracks, I can't say I've found too much of an issue with album versions. Though I was hesitant to post that live video as the mixdown on it is slightly terrible. Now that you mention it, I do agree there is a lack dynamic variation, but whether that's due to the production or a fault of the song writing I'm not certain. Thanks for the reply!
For more interesting prog stuff, check out Hungarian band "Masfél" on YouTube. Watch the video for Crow. Then listen to the album "Angel's Egg". I think you might dig them mightily.