MORE THAN A DREAM

This is Australian proggers' first album and it shows - the arrangements and songs are somewhat simpler than on later albums. But a prog beginner often begins where a pop music zenith ends. Unitopia plays catchy, accessible crossover prog, equal times laid back and rocking, but with a crunchy guitar. Production is not loud, but very clear. Distinctive features are incorporation of world music and a strong baritone of vocals - no whiners or high range bellowers here. Curiously, on one of the songs from the second album he does a Bon Scott from fellow Australians AC/DC, but I digress.

This album begins rather uncommonly with Common Goal with its almost hard rockish vibe and quieter vocals. Highlights here are the irresistible pop rock of Fate with an ethnic brass leads, the first stab at an epic, 12-minute Justified with both reflective and powerful sections, Afro-beat Take good care, and More than a dream, similar in tone and infectiousness to Fate, but slower. Both that song and Justified end with strong guitar solos.