ALONE TOGETHER

I wasn't expecting a big deal from this album. "Quidam" released an excellent debut album which was a great mix of symphonic and neo-prog, but the quality of their production was a little behind with their next releases. The bottom was being reached with "SurREvival" which corresponded to the change of lead vocalist.

From a rich and passionate female one (Emila Derkowska), the band switched to a monotone male singer (Bartek Kossowicz). This was a major difference and not for the best.

There are hopes with the opening track which seemed to mean a good return to a more symphonic approach, but unfortunately it won't last for long. They will just revert quickly to an easy and predictable neo-prog ("Depicting Colours Of Emotions").

My feeling is that we are listening to a sub-par "IQ" or alike. But I prefer the original.

As usual there are some interesting guitar solos ("We Lost") and flute is an excellent add-on; but all this is ruined with their lead singer who is trying hard to sound as Gabriel ("Of Illusions" but not only).

There are hardly any song that is fully enjoyable; only bits of. Like in the heavy and uninspired "One Day We Find " during which a fine flute solo is available. The oppressive "We Are Alone Together..." might well be the one and only good song, and to confirm this ...But Strong Together closes the album in a decent manner.

Two stars are as high as I can go for this album. Gone is the great inspiration of their early days, unfortunately.