JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

The last reviewer, moodyxadi, summarized how I think about this album, about it having a strong theological thesis behind it. I even would go as far as proposing it for study in schools, to start some debate about Christianity and how it isn't dead and celestial, but it's also down-to earth and applicable to life. It sure got me interested, because after discovering the album I started reading the bible with a new perspective. Whenever I hear a reading of the passion of Christ, I start playing the corresponding song in my head! It has made such a strong impact in my life, that I consider it one of the top 5 if not my favourite album of all time. I remember I discovered the album around the same time that Mel Gibson's Passion of Christ was the "hottest" movie around and I thought that this record was superior in so many ways.

As others have remarked, the music is very vocal-oriented (since it's an opera) and is also quite diverse. The whole album flows nicely, but it has some stronger parts. The beginning combo of Overture and Heaven on Their Minds is very strong, revolving around an instantly recognizable guitar riff. Another high point is the songs Simon Zealotes/Poor Jersusalem and Pilate's dream, since they share a melodic theme which is very nice. The Temple has nice riffing with good rhythm.

The pinnacle of the album, IMO is The Last Supper and Gethsemane. The first one because is a full-blown prog song with many well-done changes in mood and structure. The second one because of Gillan's performance, which makes me feel the pain that the historical Jesus would have felt facing his imminent death. Side Four is also quite good, with the reprise of the Overture and the theological pop-funk of Superstar.

One thing that I've noticed is that some melodies and chord progressions of this album are the same as some gospel songs that I've heard in church. I don't know who copied who, but I'm sure this album was influenced by and influenced many works that are considered progressive. I don't think Jesus Christ Superstar is overtly progressive per se but, I'm going to look past that and give it five stars (I would give it four stars being this a prog site).