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Hugo, the former vocalist of the classic one-album band Valentine has finally released the follow-up to his hit debut album from 1997. On that self-titled disc, Hugo proved that he could write perfect AOR songs without being in a band situation. Aided by AOR guru Gary Hughes (Ten), it was an album that caught many by surprise due to the classy production and the well-crafted compositions. Plus, his impressive vocals were lauded by many. So how does this album compare to the debut? It's not as in your face or as sharp as the self titled, yet Hugo proves again that he can write a good melodic rock song. There are not as many instant "hits" as on the previous album, but that's not to say that the songs are not there. They most definitely are, just a bit more disguised."Can't Stop Me Loving You" and "Tell It to My Heart" open the album with a good pace and with plenty of hooks to appease fans of his rock tunes. Great songs and smooth production, although his voice has been pushed a bit back in the mix, much to my chagrin. "Last One More Time" is a beautiful ballad based around a majestic piano piece. Beautiful lyrics, and a powerful melody to carry them through, this is one of the best ballads Hugo has written. "Anyone in Love" is bound to draw comparisons to Journey, yet again. Moody and somewhat quiet, it's a nice, fresh sounding song that takes the listener back to the mid-80's days of lite-pop rock. "Fine" is a simple, rocking tune. Not much depth to it and rather unoriginal, it still blends well with the rest of the record. "Blues for You" is an R&B tinged ballad. A certain sadness permeates Hugo's vocals - much like in his previous album, where his tone tends to be melancholic even on the upbeat songs. "This Love Song" continues the sad tone of the previous song. A bit faster paced, it's a good song that could have used much better production. It sounds a bit too lite for its own good. "I'll Be Waiting" follows very much along the same lines. I suspect the personal tragedy of losing his mother recently gave this album a very sad feel - and it shows. Vinny Burns rips on the guitar solo, though. ----Released in 2000 by Now & Then Records | Tracklist: Can't Stop Loving You, Tell It To My Heart, Last One More Time, Anyone in Love, Fine, Blues for You, This Love Song, I Will Be Waiting, Our Love Will Be There, Magic Power, Time on Earth
Here's yet another Dream Theater side project! This one features drummer Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), vocalist/keyboardist Neil Morse (Spock's Beard), bassist Pete Trewass (Marillion) and guitarist Roine Stolt (Flower Kings). More akin to the more 70's prog styling of Spock's Beard, this album is essential for all fans of progressive rock. The musicianship, as expected, is excellent. The album is so well rounded, more records from this group will be expected with open arms. Not for the faint of heart, the first song "All of the Above" is a 30 minute long example of above-average musicianship combined with tasty song-writing. Very much in the 70's prog style, mixed in with Beatles-like harmonies, this song ranges from fast paced instrumental acrobatics to soothing ballad-like interludes, to outright hand-swaying, fist-pumping rock."We All need Some Light" is a beautiful ballad that should be all over the radio. The harmonies are impeccable. "Mystery Train" is a a pure, all out progressive monster of a song. Solidly based on the pop and psychedelic elements of the Beatles as well as infusing elements of the Flower Kings and SPock's Beard. Brilliantly executed and trippy, this is one of the liveliest prog songs I've heard in years. "My New World" is like a mix between "We All Need Some Light" and "Mystery Train" - blending the acoustic sensibilities of the former with the psychedelic/experimental nature of the latter. The last song, "I Held (Twas) In I" is yet another monster of progressive rock. Although a cover, this song blends perfectly with the rest of the album as it is in that same 70's prog rock styling. All in all, this is an essential purchase for all fans of progressive rock. However, if you're looking for something more metal, closer to Dream Theater, this will not be of your liking. You have to approach this with an open mind (as is the case with most prog albums) because soundscapes will fly out of left, right and center field. This album is all over, in a very, very good way. ----Released in 2000 by Metal Blade Records | Tracklist: All of the Above, We All Need Some Light, Mystery Train, My New World, I Held (Twas) In I |
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