OCTOBER PROJECT

This is an okay album I suppose, but it doesn't qualify as progressive music at all, and really doesn't qualify as folk either. I've read several reviews of this album and band that have placed them closer to nineties new age, adult contemporary, or even to Broadway musical works. All these seem to fit their sound, but folk doesn't. Sony was apparently impressed enough with them to ink a multi- record deal in 1993, but dropped them after their sophomore release in 1996.

The music itself is decent enough, with notably strong vocals from the contralto Mary Fahl, who has since gone on to a solo classical and off-Broadway singing and acting career. Her most interesting claim to fame is a solo release of her own 'interpretation' of Dark Side of the Moon, a Nightwish-like affair but with a lot more electronica and not quite as good of instrumental musicianship (although admittedly I say this having only heard a few samples off the web - the album itself is a bit difficult to locate). She's got a hell of a voice though.

The tracks on this October Project debut are all composed by bandleader and keyboardist Emil Adler, and the lyrics come from his wife Julie Flanders, who does not appear on the album itself except to play finger cymbals on one track ("Return to Me"). The lyrical themes are a mix of abstract poetry, introspection, and vaguely mystical references. Pretty much run-of-the-mill new age stuff for the most part. The music consists of a couple of digital keyboards, sometimes piano, very muted guitar, and drum tracks. Again, nothing worth getting excited about, and the emphasis is clearly on Fahl's vocals and Flanders' lyrics.

It's worth noting that the producer of this album was Glenn Rosenstein, also know for his work with such pop-music acts as Madonna, U2, and Jars of Clay, as well as for a number of Grammys and Emmys for film and television scores. His pedigree is quite evident in the slick production and sanitized sound of this album.

The individual tracks really aren't worth delving into, mostly since this album and band have been badly mis-categorized on this web site. A decent enough record, but not the kind of thing most progressive music fans are looking for. If you are a Mostly Autumn or Nightwish fan, or are into Hollywood-tinged adult contemporary you might like this record. Otherwise I'd recommend passing. Fortunately this one only set me back $8 U.S. out of the bargain bin. Two stars.

peace