STRANGE DESTINATIONS

Frenchman Ludovic Briand presents us with his second collaborative effort with piano/keyboard virtuoso Julien Boursin--again based on the spiritual journey of one fictional protagonist named "Walter."

1. "Passage" (2:12) (4.25/5) 2. "Bad Neighborhood" (5:53) (8.66667/10) 3. "Stuck Under" (4:57) (8.6667/10) 4. "Son Of Someone" (4:43) (8.6667/10) 5. "The End Of Me" (6:17) one of the better songs on the album. (8.75/10) 6. "I'm Not Supposed To Be Here" (5:12) a song that reminds me of one of PETER JONES' collaborations with the late great COLIN TENCH ? or something by a high-quality Christian Rock band (Jars of Clay or Neal Morse). (8.75/10) 7. "Unvirtual Reality" (4:57) a very solid album-oriented prog rock. A top three song. (8.75/10) 8. "Pleased To Meet Me" (5:37) sounds like a Christian Rock variation of Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes."(8.6667/10) 9. "Father Of The Future" (3:40) a Toto/Guy Manning song? (8.5/10) 10. "Mother Of Silence" (2:19) (4.375/5) 11. "Work Of Art" (4:56) (8.5/10) 12. "Portal" (4:42) an average song that is lit by some flashy instrumental performances. (8.75/10)

Total time 55:25

Excellent musicianship throughout an album of somewhat dull or lackluster old-style "classic rock"-style songs. I'm reminded more of Foreigner, Styx, Toto, Ambrosia, or Journey than any artist in Prog World (except for maybe Guy Manning and some of Peter Jones' songs). I really admire and enjoy the interplay of the technically skilled leaders of the band: both Julien and Ludovic are masters of their instruments. Ig uess I'm not much of a fan of the lead vocals--or their lyrics (which, I swear, sound as if they come from a Christian Rock album)--which remind me a lot of both Peter Jones and Guy Manning. I understand being so inspired by one's spiritual path as to want to write songs about it (something Jon Anderson and Van Morrison have made careers doing), but sometimes it just feels too sappy or syrupy (for my ears)--or preachy for my tastes. I am happy for Ludovic and his growth and experience, and I wish him all the best for continued progress, I'm just not sure the medium or style he has chosen is the best fit.

B-/3.5 stars; an album of solid musicianship and excellent, if familiar, compositions that many prog lovers are going to find wondrous and rewarding--rated up for the excellent instrumental interplay from its seasoned veterans.