SPHERES

Major influence is by no doubt "Yes". But the band is not trying to be only a pale copy, nor a tribute band à la "Druid" or "Starcastle". This composition is full of beautiful music and harmony.

Even if it is a very long number, it is not dull. I only regret that the finale is a bit flat. I was expecting some kind of a bombastic finale which will never arrive. But before this one, the "Light Waves" section is simply excellent. Probably the most "Yes" oriented of all. It lasts for over thirteen minutes and is by far the best track (or portion of a track).

Church organ to start (you know like.), followed by a complex instrumental part (very much in the style of CTTE). Vocals are very pleasant. Calm, profound: only some more conviction could have been integrated. The most interesting parts are obviously the instrumental ones. They evolve into some "Gates Of Delirium" pieces which are rather pleasant.

The second section ("The Light Of Reason") is almost as good. Clocking at over eleven minutes, it features more vocals. It is more popish, but great symphonic moments are achieved as well. Still, it falls a bit short after such a great opening part.

The very short third section (less than a minute) is an acoustic guitar piece. Peaceful. As I have mentioned, the fourth and last section lacks in grandeur. Such a long track should have deserved to get a bombastic finale. "Hymn To The Light" is just a mellow acoustic closing. What a pity to end on such an average mood.

None of the other songs are really great. Just average and shy of the epic. Both the opener (170191 - another Yes relation ?) and the AOR-ish "Children Of A Dying World" are forgetable.

"Reprise" is an all instrumental track full of synth sounds while "Source" is all subtlety and features a great piano part. The latter is definitely pleasant; almost classic. Hervé is performing nicely. But the guy is gifted.

"Lost" is a rock ballad, somewhat mellow and not really memorable and the closing number Paradox is just a filler IMO. Too bad.

As I have mentioned in my intro, this second "Now" album only performs thanks to "Converging Universe". Still, three stars for the whole.

Share this NOW review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to ZowieZiggy
• Report this review (#162574)
• Buy NOW music online with PA partners
• Show all NOW MP3/Stream
• Go to NOW page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Spheres page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for NOW related discussions