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Neal Morse - One CD (album) cover

ONE

Neal Morse

 

Symphonic Prog

4.12 | 540 ratings

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Tarcisio Moura
Prog Reviewer
4 stars This was my first entry into Neil Morseīs solo discography. Although Iīm not a fan of Spockīs Beard I was curious enough to hear some of his latter work since I heard so much praising for it. And I thought this album would be a good choice. Although his new found faith in christianity may have limited his lyrics in a way, it seems to have given him also a lot of inspiration on the musical side. yes, the record is about Jesus and all, itīs kind of preachy alright, and yet Iīm not bothered by that, because in the end the music is all that counts. And musically I can say this album is a triumph. the guy really knows how to make great music and deliver it with passion and precision.

One is one of those rare cases where the influences are clear, and still itīs very original. Yes, Genesis, Beatles and some Gentle Giant are the obvious sources of inspiration and traits of those groups can be found all over the CD. But donīt look for anything explicit, since Neil Morseīs talent ensured that those elements are only part of the formula. The music here is very much Morseīs own version of prog. Nothing overly complex for its own sake, but working for the music. And he proves to be an excelelnt singer, songwriter, keyboardsman and guitarrist. And he is helped by equally skilled musicians (Randy George on bass and ex Dream Theater Mike Portnoy on drums, plus a few guests). The results are awesome: the music is a fine example of talent, technique and taste all put together for the best results possible. If some of his stuff sounds simple at first sight, listen to it again. Youīll find very fine subtle parts that make this CD something to be enjoyed a little more with every new hearing.

The right production only enhances the tremendous musicanship of all involved and the excellent, elaborated compositions that make this CD extremely well craft. It is ok that the quality of the songs vary, but thery are excelent or at least very good, except maybe the slightly corny The Reunion. The best ones to me are the magnificent the 17+ The Separated man and the opener The Creation, another great epic.

Iīm looking forward to hear some of his prolific works soon. This one was a very nice surprise and even if you donīt like all those christian preaching, the music here is top quality and a must have for any symphonic prog fan.

Rating: 4.5 stars. Highly recommended.

Tarcisio Moura | 4/5 |

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