HEALING

The first side of this album is again bringing the listener to a kaleidoscope of musical styles which is quite disturbing to listen to. But since the first Todd album, it was mostly the case. So, the usual fan won't be surprised but the casual one who is taking the ride with "Healing" must be pretty uncomfortable with the offering.

The first trio of songs are all but memorable; especially the weak and experimental "Pulse". But what about "Flesh"? A weak complaint all the way through. The man was gifted in writing fine rock ballads but I am quite disappointed with this one.

The golden press next key is best used while reaching "Golden Goose". Ouch! It hurts. A lot. My son Daniel just entered my home office while I was writing this review (I swear that this is true). He told me: "what's this sh*t"? I can only agree?

As I have mentioned earlier on, Todd's melodic angle is yet again available during "Compassion". The only bearable song so far. But nothing great to be honest. A mellow rock ballad. But after all this junk, it has to be received as a nice gift. Maybe somewhat syrupy.

"Shine" is the best moment of this album. If you are looking for some classically built song: pass you have to pass your way. This one is full of extravaganza and fantasy. Wild synths and beat, decadent, bizarre, attractive. Innovative and different. Todd at his best. Finally!

The epic title track is divided into three parts of which the first is a rather conventional pop rock affair: nice sax, but fairly average melody and song writing. This is not at all an epic as we could have expected from a prog angle. After all, Donna Summer also released some epics, right?

This song smells as boredom for most of it; and even some Far-Eastern partitions, although welcome, won't change my mind. The second part of this "Healing" is still better, but at no time captive of my senses. These are twenty minutes not very well spent, I'm afraid. Not a second to blow you away, not a moment to say "wow!". Nothing great, unfortunately. I would call this as just a long song. Without too much content.

This is not a very good work. A basic and average rock album like there are tons of. The judgement is not being altered with both "bonus" tracks which are quite avoidable.

Two stars.