WORLDS APART

"World's apart" is Saga's fourth album. Still very progressive, some changes however have been made here compared to the previous albums. The sound is better, more flashy and echoed, especially the really bottom and loud bass. The keyboards are more modern and futuristic than ever: they are also quite atmospheric. With 2-3 keyboardists in the band, one has to have great expectations, and actually the listener should not be disappointed regarding the keyboards refinement and pertinence. There are still synchronized combination of electric guitars and keyboards forming melodic, structured and complex parts. The lead vocals still sound like the singer of Spandau Ballet, but they also developed some similitudes with the singer of The Fixx. The electric guitars themselves become here more varied, and they sometimes sound a bit like the clean ones on the early albums of The Fixx. That's why I consider this album to have the traditional Saga's style combined with some Fixx-esque elements. There are some very good electronic drums parts. Many keyboards have a magical percussive sound. The sound sometimes slightly approaches the perfect one on the "Head or Tales" album, made 2 years later. Saga has their own unique sound & style: they probably inspired neo prog bands like Pallas.

RATING: 4.5 stars