SHOW

Honestly, I must have listened to this album about a dozen times and I still don't know how to describe it. Do I like it? Definitely. Do I think it's an improvement over their previous material? Let's see...

It starts off on a binary beat and some kind of mantra, the phrase "A new world's coming and the old one's gone" repeated over and over again; it's so cookie it makes me giggle. Then about half way into the track descends this most exquisite, ethereal, angelic female voice that lights everything up and blends into some heavenly arrangements only A.C. can come up with. The next track is an ominous number similar to "Stalker", perhaps a little less inspired. "Face to Face" is your typical AFTER CRYING light piano waltz and "Welcome on Board" is an accessible little rock ditty. Hmm... "Paradise Lost" is a beautiful cello tune with some lacey, languid guitar play in the background - simply divine. The album then continues with an assortment of styles you least expect from the band, especially a prog band (do I smell some rap in here?) Double Hmm... I suppose the theme - a satire on modern times - explains a few things; titles such as "Remote Control", "Technopolis" and "Globe Village at Night" should give you an idea.

Overall, I think "Show" is an interesting CD, a tad more accessible than the rest of AFTER CRYING's material. It has its genial moments, including some blissful passages guaranteed to send a shiver or two down your spine. In other words, the kind of album you wouldn't want to miss. Do look it up: it may not be perfect but is still miles ahead many current prog acts. By the way, if a smart alec ever tells you that prog isn't so 'progressive' anymore, let him have an earful of "Show" and watch his jaw drop... :-)