1. Why did they make this album? What was the passion or message that forced them to produce what they have? Or, simply what was their motivation for the themes they chose for this album?
“What is best described as a true labor of love for drummer Chris G has been completed.” ‘The recorded work, a tribute CD of the music of his late brother Andrew, is the culmination of nearly four years' effort devoted to countless studio sessions.” ‘At its core, the music would fall into the progressive rock category, given the elaborate arrangements and instrumentation.
“A total of eighteen progressive rock players were recorded in twelve different studios located in six different American cities.” “This host of artists associated with the genre provided the cast of players sought by Chris to recreate Andrew's music with professional flair and credibility.” “Thanks to their talents, Andrew's musical spirit will endure, accessible to everyone.
“According to Chris – "We strove for a balance of staying true to the songs as written while letting the artists bring something of themselves to the music." “Within that framework, the recording was completed as a lasting tribute to Andrew and the music that meant everything to him (http://www.chris-g.com/reflections/, 2009).”
2. What message are they delivering through their lyrics and music?
1. The Tall Tale Heart – Drums strong keys and guitars open this song like a warm welcome. Vocals enter and it’s a mix of Asia/Yes with some pop influence. Kind of an Art in America feel to the music. But definitely original and interesting. The keys are inspiring. Then it slows down in the middle, the bass takes over for a minute, and we get a cool keyboard, drum and guitar instrumental piece.
2. From This day Forward – Keys and smashing drums open this one. Then the bass and guitar pull through and that Art in America melody really comes through. Solid guitar solos supported by drums and keys.
3. Give it Time – This time guitars grind and open this one. Good vocal driven pop song. Nice bells and ticking clock effects at the end.
4. How Can We Go on this Way? – Cool synths and effects before vocals bring the story. This one sounds like a late Genesis track. Very similar to Invisible Touch era sound. Keys supported by strong drums with interwoven guitars and bass.
5. Lost in it All – Cool effects and then drums and guitar roar in before we settle down to a key and guitar melody. Nice violin piece in the middle making this one of the standout songs for me. Cool echo effect at the end.
6. Curiosity Song (I Only Want to Know) – Pop driven song with guitars and drums supporting vocals. Another Mike and the Mechanics sounding song. Nice piano interlude to close out the song.
7. Peasant Under Class – Crashing drums and keys to open this one. Good vocals with more energy than most of the rest of the album. The bass figures more prominently. Fantastic keyboard power in many places during this song. The guitars and vocals at the end are a real treat.
8. All Fixed (Predestination) – Wow! Cool keys and powerful drums along with launching and grinding guitars. The best song on the album. The vocals possess more emotion than most of the rest of the album. The guitar solos are very good.
3. Does this music improve, change, or add to the genre? What does the listener receive from listening to the music?
Its good well written and performed music. The keyboards really stand out throughout this album. There are some very interesting keyboard excursions which separate this album from many in the same genre.
4. Does it have longevity? Is it something a fan will like to play again and again?
It is a good solid album of well written songs.
Rating: 7/10
Reviewed by Prof on March 6th, 2010
