STERN MEISSEN - STUNDENSCHLAG

"Stundenschlag" (translation: Hour Strike) represents the turning point that many prog bands faced in the 1980's -- a move away from the artistic (and sometimes bombastic) prog toward more commercial, radio-friendly rock. Think of Genesis "Abacab" or Yes "90215" or any of Asia's early albums.

Track 1 "So What Will Become of Me" has a striking bass motif throughout and a catchy vocal melody to boot. This track often appears in recent live performances by Stern Meissen and has become one of their signature tracks. Track 2 "The One and the Other" has a 1980's Moody Blues vocal vibe and some nice proggy interludes. Track 3 "The Couple" has clear classical influences, and for the first time in a Stern Meissen band, violin and guitar! Listen carefully to this track for its resemblance to UK's "Rendezvous" or "Nevermore" -- especially the Holdsworth-inspired guitar. Track 4 "Hour Strike" has some outstanding work on the bass guitar, and Eddie Jobson influenced violin, especially around the 3:50 mark. Track 5 "In the Same Lane" is somewhat sing-songy and forgettable. Track 6 "El Salvador" introduces a Caribbean vibe, including steel drums and conga beat, despite the fact that the country of El Salvador is on the Pacific, not the Caribbean Sea. Track 7 "I Want to Live" has some nice, engaging musical interludes, despite being a little sing-songy. Overall, it is nicely composed, balanced, arranged, and voiced.

For a transitional album, bridging the prog of old and the emerging pop sensibilities, I find this album as enjoyable as any of the aforementioned transitional albums by the great prog masters. Tracks 1, 3, and 4 are the best. If you've missed the resemblance to UK in tracks 3 and 4, give it another listen. Enjoy it for what it is, a transitional album, and not what you hoped it was. Three stars.

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