100 Years From Now Review

[Toph]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

[chowhall]

It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

Step away from the Kool-Aid, or is that bathwater?

[Toph]

It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

Step away from the Kool-Aid, or is that bathwater?

Oh yeah that's right - I'm so sorry, I totally forgot. Let me restate that...

Blue Collar Man is the greatest song written of all time (just barely beating out Just Be) and Cyclorama is a classic album. ...

That better for you?

[Mr JY Roboto]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

I will make this short:

1. Private Jones is an average song at best. DDY is capable of so much better than this.
2. Rubicon is boring.
3. Rain is dated and sounds like a Barry Manilow attempt at a pop/rock song.
4. There is nothing memorable on this cd.
5. NEXT!

[sadie65]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

I will make this short:

1. Private Jones is an average song at best. DDY is capable of so much better than this.
2. Rubicon is boring.
3. Rain is dated and sounds like a Barry Manilow attempt at a pop/rock song.
4. There is nothing memorable on this cd.
5. NEXT!

Nothing like having extremes in either direction. Pointless on both parts.

[Toph]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

I will make this short:

1. Private Jones is an average song at best. DDY is capable of so much better than this.
2. Rubicon is boring.
3. Rain is dated and sounds like a Barry Manilow attempt at a pop/rock song.
4. There is nothing memorable on this cd.
5. NEXT!

Nothing like having extremes in either direction. Pointless on both parts.

That's bullshit Sadie and you know it. I gave a legitimate review of an album that I think is fantastic. Period. but evidently for anti Dennis folks like yourself, you aren't allowed to do thator else you are called a kool aid drinker. But that didn't stop you all from saying that a very average Cyclorama album was "the best Styx album ever"...Evidently that can be said, but saying 100 Years is great isn't allowed without being told you are at an "extreme". But the hypocrissy of Styx fans is unreal.

Then again, no Styx album has ever generated the type of positive critical reviews that 100 years has so who is more right?

[Toph]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

I will make this short:

1. Private Jones is an average song at best. DDY is capable of so much better than this.
2. Rubicon is boring.
3. Rain is dated and sounds like a Barry Manilow attempt at a pop/rock song.
4. There is nothing memorable on this cd.
5. NEXT!

Then don't bother to play it. Just go pleasure yourself to Just Be and leave it at that....

[sadie65]

That's bullshit Sadie and you know it. I gave a legitimate review of an album that I think is fantastic. Period. but evidently for anti Dennis folks like yourself, you aren't allowed to do thator else you are called a kool aid drinker. But that didn't stop you all from saying that a very average Cyclorama album was "the best Styx album ever"...Evidently that can be said, but saying 100 Years is great isn't allowed without being told you are at an "extreme". But the hypocrissy of Styx fans is unreal.

Then again, no Styx album has ever generated the type of positive critical reviews that 100 years has so who is more right?

Anti-Dennis? Me? Wow, you clearly don't know my history. All kidding aside, I can appreciate you enjoy the cd. But I found your review extreme. I've no doubt you believe it, but before you decide to label me as Anti-Dennis or assume I found Cyclorama "the best Styx album ever"...you need to know who you speak of. Most here know where my preferences lie, just as they know that I try to be fair and balanced.

[chowhall]

Step away from the Kool-Aid, or is that bathwater?

Oh yeah that's right - I'm so sorry, I totally forgot. Let me restate that...

Blue Collar Man is the greatest song written of all time (just barely beating out Just Be) and Cyclorama is a classic album. ...

That better for you?

Liking or loving this CD is fine with me. Calling it better than POE, Equinox, Cornerstone, Crystal Ball, or even Kilroy or Edge is stretching it. Dennis is in fine voice but the CD is missing that elusive Styx sound for me. Cyclorama was the same for me. It was good but it was missing a very key ingredient. What made Styx great was the blending of the three styles. I think Dennis had the most talent of the the three but needed the balance to keep him in check. He doesn't have anyone that will say no to him now.

[Monker]

Step away from the Kool-Aid, or is that bathwater?

Oh yeah that's right - I'm so sorry, I totally forgot. Let me restate that...

Blue Collar Man is the greatest song written of all time (just barely beating out Just Be) and Cyclorama is a classic album. ...

That better for you?

Liking or loving this CD is fine with me. Calling it better than POE, Equinox, Cornerstone, Crystal Ball, or even Kilroy or Edge is stretching it. Dennis is in fine voice but the CD is missing that elusive Styx sound for me. Cyclorama was the same for me. It was good but it was missing a very key ingredient. What made Styx great was the blending of the three styles. I think Dennis had the most talent of the the three but needed the balance to keep him in check. He doesn't have anyone that will say no to him now.

It's not meant to be Styx and comparing the songs as if they are Styx songs, IMO, is nothing more then evidence of a writer who can't see past the fact that DDY will never be a part of the band again.

It's a great DDY solo album. His best - by far. Accept it for what it is...and that's not a bad thing.

Had to laugh at the remorks to Sadie...too funny. A good way to make yourself look like an ass.

[BlackWall]

I can't speak for the US version, but I'm looking forward to hearing the new songs and remixes soon. Anyway, I think it's great to have some new work from Dennis, and I think it's crazy that anyone is really comparing this album or "Cyclorama" to Styx.. What exactly was the "Styx" sound anyway, and who was responsible for it? All of them.. They are not together; so, naturally, both albums are going to fall short of sounding like "Styx". To be fair, Styx had some pretty different sounds between 1972 and 1999. I'm sure if we try we can hear little bits and pieces of some of them here, but this is a DeYoung solo album, not Styx, and even if they were together today, would they sound like "Styx"?

Taking both albums for what they are, even though it's really comparing apples to oranges; I will none the less attempt to give my personal take on both, while also trying to prove why they can't really be compared, and really come out relatively even.

I will say that I respect Dennis a lot for writing some very introspective compositions. The production isn't always great, and the lyrics are a little awkward in places(remember, I'm talkin' Canadian version), but Dennis takes more chances, and this release truly seems to be from the heart. You can tell he's truly been affected by what's gone down over the last ten years, and he's sharing his struggles and redemptions with his fans. I'm sure a lot of members on this board are going to flip when I say this, but I see this release as sort of a Billy Joel, ala, "River Of Dreams" kind of album. A lot of his fans don't rate that album as highly because it's not as commercial, but it's very personal. I do think "100 Years" is more commercial, but I don't know what good that will do for Dennis at this particular juncture. So, anyway, as a Dennis solo album, this is good effort, probably even his best(basing this on "Ultimate Collection"), but with pros and cons. As I said, production isn't always great, awkward/weak lyrics at times, sugary sweet background vocals, and even some of the arrangements could have been a little better, but that's more of a personal take. As Chowhall said, and hit the nail right on the head, there is no one to tell Dennis no. In any case, I look forward to hearing the US version. I think it was a wise move to ditch "Respect Me"; it had a nice groove and verse, but that chorus.. wow.

As for the the now six year old "Cyclorama".. better production, possibly more appealing to the casual listener, but I'm not sure how deep it runs, and it's just not all that interesting. For one thing, it's hard to identify one song with one particular group member due to the fact that (I believe) every track was a collaborative effort, but that's just it; this was a group effort, where "100 Years" is solo; so, it doesn't even make that much sense to compare. Both have their own appeal for different reasons, but since I have already jumped on the bandwagon, it's too late to turn back now. Tommy is his usual happy go lucky self, but I suppose this escapism has always been part of his charm; unfortunately, outside of, "Yes, I Can", I don't think Tommy was really at his best here, and it really makes some of Dennis' new material refreshing to me. I've really missed Dennis' cynicism. The thing is, on the other hand, there's really nothing bad that Tommy brought to the table; it's just that he seems to play it a little too safe. As with "100 Years", and "Crossing The Rubicon", this album has a centerpiece in "These Are The Times". Both are great songs, but does one of them sound more like Styx than the other? Not to these ears. I guess one big difference and something that works in favor of "Cyclo" is that there are no real clunkers. "Fields Of The Brave" comes the closest, but Dennis has a few in "Respect Me", "I Believe In You", "Rain", and the lyrics to "Breathe Again".

Does either "Cyclorama" or "100 Years From Now" sound more like Styx? Doesn't that answer pretty much lie in what the Styx sound has been to the individual listener over the years?

[froy]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late

I will make this short:


2. Rubicon is boring.

Pretty much shows your clueless.

[bugsymalone]

Toph, no one is disputing your right to post a review, but you MUST expect disagreement with it. Especially here! This is a Styx board, after all, and that means all of Styx, not just Dennis.

As to these continued comparisons of 100 Years and Cyclorama, I still have problems with this tack. What basis? It makes far more sense to compare 100 Years with either Dennis' solo works or HIS work with Styx.

As Black Wall has done, the albums should be judged on their individual merits.

And hey Sadie, you Dennis hater you, what the heck were you doing at all those DDY concerts anyways???

Bugsy

[Zan]

Does either "Cyclorama" or "100 Years From Now" sound more like Styx? Doesn't that answer pretty much lie in what the Styx sound has been to the individual listener over the years?

Why do you always have to be so argumentative?

[Toph]

Step away from the Kool-Aid, or is that bathwater?

Oh yeah that's right - I'm so sorry, I totally forgot. Let me restate that...

Blue Collar Man is the greatest song written of all time (just barely beating out Just Be) and Cyclorama is a classic album. ...

That better for you?

Liking or loving this CD is fine with me. Calling it better than POE, Equinox, Cornerstone, Crystal Ball, or even Kilroy or Edge is stretching it. Dennis is in fine voice but the CD is missing that elusive Styx sound for me. Cyclorama was the same for me. It was good but it was missing a very key ingredient. What made Styx great was the blending of the three styles. I think Dennis had the most talent of the the three but needed the balance to keep him in check. He doesn't have anyone that will say no to him now.

Fair point.

[lights1961]

For the US version of 100 Years from Now, Dennis DeYoung has delivered an unquestionable blast from the late 70s/early 80s past that made Styx American Rock Icons. I didn't think the Canadian version could be improved, but he has managed to do just that. Losing "Respect Me" is no great loss and the two new songs "Private Jones" and "There Was A Time" scream two different eras of Styx.

The Songs:
One Hundred Years From Now - The record company was right. A solo voice on this song bumps it up significantly. Reminiscent of Styx song (ala Queen of Spades, Suite Madame Blue, Pieces of Eight) that start off slow and end up rocking hard, 100 Years From Now is a pure delight. I underestimated this song on the Canadian release, it is a huge improvement in all English and with one voice (9/10)

This Time Next Year - A remixed version with more guitars and a stronger, clearer song, a natural choice for the first single. Would have been huge in 1985. Sounds like 80s Styx. Plain awesome and just plain rocks (in a pop way). (10/10)

Rain - Heavy synth laden song that just keeps going. Great Stygian vocas. The energy on the album is sky high at this point(10/10)

Crossing The Rubicon - After the last two songs, I am almost ready for a come down, and the beginning of Rubicon changes the tone of the album significantly. What was fast and frenetic, becomes dark and brooding...Rubicon is a modern classic. Written in the style of Grand Illusion's Castle Walls, it would fit on any late 70s Styx album. Unbelievably good (10/10)

Save Me - Jumping back into 80s and even early 90s Styx pop, Save Me borrows some elements of Show Me The Way, but is also truly it's own unique composition. Solid song, and potentially single material - maybe even in the Christian rock genre. (9/10)

I Don't Believe In Anything - The cynical, biting DeYoung emerges with this acoustic guitar driven mid tempo track. The first song that is not unbelievably awesome, but not bad. Has a definitive western guitar twangy feel. Did JY sing back up here? Obviously not, but that vocals sure sound that way...(7/10)

Private Jones - Pure unabashed ROCK! The hardest song that any version of Styx, solo, or any entity has put out since....well Half Penny Two Penny? The guitar is powerful. Nice to hear Dennis kick off the "Second Side" with a hard rocker (9/10)

I Believe In You - Nice pop tune that could have been right at home on Cornerstone or a DDY mid 80s solo track. Some great keyboard work and the piano solo at the end is really strong - almost has a Bruce Hornsby feel. Solid track and possible single? (9/10)

There Was A Time - The second great addition. In the tradition of Don't Let It End or a mid 80s type of ballad, a sentimental song that is better than his last effort at sentimentality, "Goodbye Roseland' from the Styx BNW album. Bit of Broadway influence.. But I'm glad he put this on. Another smash hit in 1985. "Keep Hope Alive!" (10/10).

Breathe Again - My least favorite song on the album. Lyrics border on cheesy, tune just so so, chorus not that memorable. Now that Respect Me is off, my candidate for the song that could have been dropped... (5/10)

Forgivevness - An underestmate and underappreciated track. Has a great message and a great tune. Vocals are once again stellar and a completely hummable tune. Acoustic guitar makes me feel Tommy Shaw is right there with JY's electric also playing a role. Could be from Equinox or Crystal Ball era Styx (10/10)

Turn Off CNN - Another political jab that has some Rockin The Paradise influence into it. Another great rocker to close out thee album. Will have you tapping your foot and singing along in a second. (10/10)

Overall: I don't say this much, but this album exceeded my expectations. It is a shame we can't release this in 1985 instead of Desert Moon. It is the most complete , comprehensive studio offering by any version of Styx, solo, or otherwise since Paradise Theatre. Yes, you read that right. The three best Styx related albums in my book are now 1) Grand Illusion, 2) Paradise Theatre, and 3) 100 Hundred Years From Now. I hope that this gets some additional publicity because it is a classic. Thanks Dennis for putting this out and letting us know the depths of your talents. A work of art.

I will make this short:

1. Private Jones is an average song at best. DDY is capable of so much better than this.
2. Rubicon is boring.
3. Rain is dated and sounds like a Barry Manilow attempt at a pop/rock song.
4. There is nothing memorable on this cd.
5. NEXT!

Nothing like having extremes in either direction. Pointless on both parts.

That's bullshit Sadie and you know it. I gave a legitimate review of an album that I think is fantastic. Period. but evidently for anti Dennis folks like yourself, you aren't allowed to do thator else you are called a kool aid drinker. But that didn't stop you all from saying that a very average Cyclorama album was "the best Styx album ever"...Evidently that can be said, but saying 100 Years is great isn't allowed without being told you are at an "extreme". But the hypocrissy of Styx fans is unreal.

Then again, no Styx album has ever generated the type of positive critical reviews that 100 years has so who is more right?

ANTI DENNIS SADIE... now that is hilarious and way off base, dont know where to begin here... Cant wait to get my copy of his work.

[yogi]

It's a GREAT GREAT CD.

'Crossing The Rubican' is 'Suite Madam Blue' 35 years later.

What an AWESOME song!!!!

The entire CD is EXCELLENT!!!!!!

[ItsMyLife]

Nothing memorable?

I'd say 'One Hundred Years From Now', 'This Time Next Year' and 'Save Me' are quite memorable.

By far the most enjoyable album *for me* from Styx or any past or present member since 'Kilroy Was Here'.

[BlackWall]

Does either "Cyclorama" or "100 Years From Now" sound more like Styx? Doesn't that answer pretty much lie in what the Styx sound has been to the individual listener over the years?

Why do you always have to be so argumentative?

Come on Zan, first off, claiming that "100 Years From Now" was comparable to Joel's "River Of Dreams" was at least opening myself up to a little criticism; don't ya think?

How about calling "Rain" a clunker??

and if that's not good enough, here ya go: I think "These Are The Times" sounds more like classic Styx than "Crossing The Rubicon"... but only during the verses where J.Y. and company stole from "Suite Madame Blue"..

[Ash]

It's a good album.... and I'd likely even like Cyclorama more if my dislike for Gowan's voice didn't prevent me from listening to it more frequently. Yeah there may be some of my bias in there, but I really just don't care for his voice all that much. Tommy had a few good songs on it and Glen is always on target. Hell I even liked the few JY moments on there even though I think JY personally is a complete and utter douchebag.

[Ash]

Does either "Cyclorama" or "100 Years From Now" sound more like Styx? Doesn't that answer pretty much lie in what the Styx sound has been to the individual listener over the years?

Why do you always have to be so argumentative?

Come on Zan, first off, claiming that "100 Years From Now" was comparable to Joel's "River Of Dreams" was at least opening myself up to a little criticism; don't ya think?

How about calling "Rain" a clunker??

and if that's not good enough, here ya go: I think "These Are The Times" sounds more like classic Styx than "Crossing The Rubicon"... but only during the verses where J.Y. and company stole from "Suite Madame Blue"..

The remix of Rain is a lot smoother than on the canadian version. That was my biggest beef was it sounded like the drums were too far out in front of everything and it sounded a little over-played. Rubicon is great, but I can see it not being everyone's cup of tea. I think the title track, This Time Next Year, Rain and Save Me are real bright moments for Styx fans - just as I think These Are the Times, Waiting For Our Time To Come and Kiss your Ass Goodbye (to a lesser, blink 182 extent) are bright moments as well.

I think it's fair to say that - save for the Gowan moments - many of these songs on Cyclo and Years have the classic styx sound. I've always thought Dennis did a better job with the guitar sound production on Styx albums, but that is my opinion.

[Abitaman]

I have always thought DDY was a good producer.

[hoagiepete]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but...I finally purchased 100 Years and must say I was more than pleasantly surprised.

There were posts that indicate folks should get over DDY as a part of Styx, which maybe you should, but IMO this sounded like Styx. Not just DDY from Styx...but Styx! The harmonies and guitar sounded awesome...if I did not know better, I'd have sworn Tommy and JY were on the album.

There were a couple of times featuring to much "show tune" and he brought back the dreaded "MODREN" , but overall, a great album. Wouldn't say it was the best ever, but good. I also thought that Cyclorama was way underated. I'll save that for another time.

Maybe I'm tired of the old classics, but this is a nice treat. All I can say is ...what might have been.

[Rockwriter]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but...I finally purchased 100 Years and must say I was more than pleasantly surprised.

There were posts that indicate folks should get over DDY as a part of Styx, which maybe you should, but IMO this sounded like Styx. Not just DDY from Styx...but Styx! The harmonies and guitar sounded awesome...if I did not know better, I'd have sworn Tommy and JY were on the album.

There were a couple of times featuring to much "show tune" and he brought back the dreaded "MODREN" , but overall, a great album. Wouldn't say it was the best ever, but good. I also thought that Cyclorama was way underated. I'll save that for another time.

Maybe I'm tired of the old classics, but this is a nice treat. All I can say is ...what might have been.

LOL, when I first heard "I Don't Believe In Anything" my first thought was, 'What the fuck is with "modren", anyway?' Of all the themes to choose to continue . . . but I like that song better now than when I first heard it, though I think it's still a verse too long.

I hope all is well.


Sterling

[Toph]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but...I finally purchased 100 Years and must say I was more than pleasantly surprised.

There were posts that indicate folks should get over DDY as a part of Styx, which maybe you should, but IMO this sounded like Styx. Not just DDY from Styx...but Styx! The harmonies and guitar sounded awesome...if I did not know better, I'd have sworn Tommy and JY were on the album.

There were a couple of times featuring to much "show tune" and he brought back the dreaded "MODREN" , but overall, a great album. Wouldn't say it was the best ever, but good. I also thought that Cyclorama was way underated. I'll save that for another time.

Maybe I'm tired of the old classics, but this is a nice treat. All I can say is ...what might have been.

LOL, when I first heard "I Don't Believe In Anything" my first thought was, 'What the fuck is with "modren", anyway?' Of all the themes to choose to continue . . . but I like that song better now than when I first heard it, though I think it's still a verse too long.

I hope all is well.


Sterling

I still never understood why the "r" was transposed in Modern for either Roboto or I Don't Believe In Anything. What is it supposed to mean? Or is it just a stupid way to say it?

[Jodes]

And I have yet to pick up the American version of 100 Years from now.. sigh..

[bugsymalone]

I think some of what Dennis does is with tongue planted firmly in cheek. And a lot of it flies over the heads of many.

I have always suspected the whole "modren" thing to be such a tweaking from Mr. DeYoung.

Bugsy

[Zan]

Maybe he thinks it sounds more British, like "motorcar"

[Toph]

Maybe he thinks it sounds more British, like "motorcar"

Good one - Another lyric I never understood why it was used...Was he in fact trying to act the part of a British Prog rocker? I guess the acting bug was biting then...

[Zan]

Maybe he thinks it sounds more British, like "motorcar"

Good one - Another lyric I never understood why it was used...Was he in fact trying to act the part of a British Prog rocker? I guess the acting bug was biting then...

Well, "who the hell we are" doesn't rhyme with "automobile."