by kansas666 » Sun Feb 20, 2005 9:40 am
You know how most classic rock bands continue to release albums with the hope that they might get back on top or at the very least to just to stay relavent? And most of these albums, in fact nearly every album of this type that I have purchased have been sub-par.
2 years ago when Cyclorama was released I didn't expect much. I mean really, the previous album with the "classic" lineup was a waste. I first heard a couple of low res clips off of their website and they didn't do much to change my mind. Then they put the entire album on the web and I was able to download it and burn it before I got to see them on Valentines Day in 2003.
I was blown away. This wasn't some weak attempt to stay relavent or a piece of sub-par product put out in order to justify touring.
This was a very strong album. Each member contributed and there was not a weak song on it. I loved the album artwork and when I heard them preview a few (4) songs in concert before the official release, I was a very happy fan. I went on to see STYX a total of 4 times in 2003 just to hear other cuts from Cyclorama.
The cd has spent a lot of time in my home, car and boat. I purchased the 5.1 channel remix as well. Over time I have come to the conclusion that Burgois Pig and the comedy bit at the end don't hold up quite as well. But over all this album is a keeper. It is too bad that it hasn't gotten the air play that I feel it deserves. But that seems to be the fate of most classic rock bands except for Aerosmith and a few others.
So Happy Birthday Cyclorama I hope you have many little brothers and sisters to compete with.
Dave