AWAKENING

I am very happy that The Reasoning finally found their way to the Archives since I didn't find the bravery to face the nearly insuperable band addition's procedure to try to get them in by myself.

I discovered this band by pure chance following different web links related to Magenta. By the time, their first album was not out yet but the available samplers hooked my attention right away. When I finally got a copy of The Awakening, I was not disappointed.

If I had to make a synthesis of the music that you will find on this album, I would tell that it fits very well this website's crossover prog definition. The title track is a perfect opener and a potential hit single but unfortunately I doubt it will find a broad audience to go big. The rest of the songs, though less immediately catchy, are equally good and interesting with different moods and influences, sailing their way between classic rock and symphonic/neo prog. No long epic in sight but this is not a flaw in my book. My only complaint could be with the voices : they are ok but not overwhelming. Nothing that could prevent you from enjoying the music, though.

Magenta is an obvious influence here, which is no surprise considering that Matthew Cohen, one of The Reasoning's founders and leaders, formerly played bass in Magenta. Similarities between those two bands can be found not only in the music but also in the artwork and logo. You will also find hints to Pink Floyd ("Chasing Rainbows") or Marillion ("Within Cold Glass" where Steve Rothery himself delivers a guitar solo).

I already figure out what some people will think : "Well, if The Reasoning sound like Magenta or Marillion that sound like the old symphonic prog giants, there must be very little novelty to be found here". Of course, I strongly disagree with that statement. I find this album very fresh and entertaining. Maybe not for dry and challenging prog fundamentalists but worth four stars on my scale and one of the very good surprises of 2007. So I'll go with the consecrated sentence : highly recommended.