TIMECODE

For sure, one has to be deeply rooted in the neo-prog genre to acclaim this band. I must agree that I am no alien to this genre, but sub-par clones of clones are too much at times. And this album might well be the one too much.

I could find them decent with "Pure" or "Facing Gravity", rating both works with three stars. Because each of these album did hold a couple of great songs. Unfortunately, I can't find such one here. Basic and third tier neo-prog.

Extremely long album as well: over seventy minutes! I wish I could have experienced such a length with my beloved "Genesis", "Tull", "Led Zep", "Purple", "Floyd" etc. But in those remote times, the format was not as such even if "Selling." clocked at over fifty minutes. But this was a masterpiece.

One has to recognize that "Half Empty, Half Fool" sounds pretty good. Heavy keys and fine vocals (which is not frequent for a German band). I have already mentioned Martin's capabilities in terms of lead singer. Of course, he sounds exactly as Nicholls (who sounds as .), but emotion and feeling are on the rendezvous. And I like this. Udo Lang's guitar work is truly good. THE highlight.

And even if the words "Nursery Rimes" appear on "Child Of Hopes", there is nothing great to expect form this song (even if Udo is offering a quite decent guitar break again).

Overlong compositions, dull and uninspired music are mostly what you can expect while listening to "Timecode". Major problem being song writing, because musicianship is rather OK (Udo being really above average). But to listen to a long complaint like "Living In The Human Race" is such a pain!

I'm afraid I can't share the same enthusiasm as other reviewers (without written text to defend their point of view). This album has little to offer even if "Ferengi Lover" doesn't sound too bad after all.

Udo Lang is really the one who holds this album on his shoulders. But he can't do no wonders and "Have A Break" is just a disaster. It combines the poorest that neo-prog can offer. Almost plagiarism from whom you might know.

The secong good song here, is Mountain High. It features real passion, which means a lot to me. Needless to say, two good songs are a little short to make a good album. Two stars is the rating. Nothing brilliant, just average music. Average rating is just what this album deserves.

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