PERFORMANCE

I've got to say that I'm quite keen on the fact that this one is not about journeys between stars and planets, downfall and rescue of humankind etc. Treating some real life issues for once is nice for a change, although I may not be a proper prog-minded person in this respect. Also I respect the artistic motivation to declutter and produce straighter songs. I think it's unfair to blame them for just trying to be commercial here. Artists shouldn't stand still and going with the times is a legitimate move. Bornemann was apparently not happy with this move, at least not in hindsight, but other band members probably were. Fair enough. As always, this is well produced, mostly keyboard oriented but with stronger impact of guitar, bass and drums than before. The bass is fantastic (as Matziol usually is). The drums sound too much like 80s and are a bit too straight, but at least they are precise and driving. Randow is a very good drummer but shows this better elsewhere. Regarding the quality of the songs, this is a mixed bag. In Disguise works very well as a catchy rocker; Shadow and Light and Broken Frame are fine, too, and a bit more complex. Broken Frame is actually one of my Eloy favourites. Mirador is a rather sparse instrumental, which is nice but not all too remarkable, and I can connect less to the remaining three songs. It's a development that I respect, with some highlights and some lesser tracks. And I can enjoy the marvellous bass playing day in day out.