Alan Parsons Project: Stereotomy (remaster)

1985 saw two releases by The Alan Parsons Project, firstly Vulture Culture which received a generally lukewarm reception and, towards the end of the year along came Stereotomy. By now the band were on a commercial decline that had begun with Ammonia Avenue and Stereotomy would climb no higher than # 43 on Billboard. Whilst the title is taken from the writings of Edgar Allen Poe the overall concept is less apparent and makes reference to the demands of fame and stardom on figures who spend their life in the public eye.

There were far fewer lead vocals this time around for Eric Woolfson who's voice, together with that of John Miles, can only be heard on the title track which provides an upbeat start. There are a myriad of keyboard sounds throughout that are typical of the mid-80's and these are best heard on two of the albums instrumental cuts, "Urbania" and "Where's The Walrus". Both prove to be effective mood pieces and the latter in particular makes a strong case for being the best instrumental piece the Project had issued since the days of I, Robot. "Limelight" gives Procul Harem's Gary Brooker an opportunity to remind us what a great voice he possesses and is both mellow, evocative and sincere. "In The Real World", on the other hand, has dated less well and has the trademark 80's drum sound and production that two decades later does little to impress. The short but sweet "Chinese Whispers" and a refrain of the title track offer a poignant close. There are just four bonus tracks this time around but all offer an insight into the creative process and this whole series of remasters from the Project are simply top drawer as regards quality and attention to detail.

A more enjoyable experience than its two predecessors, Stereotomy sounds at times as if the Project were genuinely reinvigorated and still had a bright future ahead of them.

Track Listing
"Stereotomy"
"Beaujolais"
"Urbania"
"Limelight"
"In The Real World"
"Where's The Walrus?"
"Light Of The World"
"Chinese Whispers"
"Stereotomy Two"
Bonus tracks
"Light Of The World" (backing track)
"Rumour Goin' Round" (demo)
"Stereotomy" (Eric Woolfson guide vocal)
"Stereotomy" (backing rough mix)

Added: March 19th 2009
Reviewer: Dean Pedley
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 3315
Language: english

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