Eloy – Visionary (The Laser’s Edge)

One of Europe’s longest running progressive rock bands, Germany’s ELOY return after a decade-long absence with Visionary. Billed as a deliberate attempt to return to its acclaimed 70s sound, the album is a blend of symphonic and space rock stylings, simultaneously lush and clean, melodic and atmospheric. What it isn’t, alas, is particularly compelling. There’s a certain detachment to these tracks, as if so much attention was paid to shape, size and texture that the emotional protein was baked out. It doesn’t help that majordomo FRANK BORNEMANN doesn’t sound particularly interested in the lyrics he’s singing. I really want to like cuts like “The Secret” and “Mystery,” and I respect the craft and vision involved. But nothing in this music elevates Visionary above pleasant background sound. That said, I imagine longtime fans will likely be satisfied.

http://www.eloy-legacy.com
http://www.lasercd.com