PROJECT SHANGRI-LA

More AOR-style than prog. A bit like a laid-back album from Styx or Journey. There are some prog elements, to be sure, especially in some of the instrumental sections--some bridges, plus Redemption Part 1 and Part 2. Immediate comparison that comes to mind is Heart--partly because of the style of music, partly because Lana Lane's voice sounds a lot like Ann Wilson's. Lana Lane and Erik Norlander did most of the songwriting, with other band members also contributing.

The highlight of the album is The Beast Within You, which is more dynamic and progressive than the rest of the album. My version of the album has a bonus track, John Wetton's I Believe in You. The liner notes say that John Wetton wrote this song for this album; two years later he released his own version on his Rock of Faith album. The last three tracks-- a weak Italian language cover, a fun proggy instrumental written by Norlander, and the Wetton bonus track--seem a bit disjointed from the rest of the album. The Italian song should have been left off, as it really feels out of place.

Overall, a nice listen. If you're new to Lana Lane, start with one of her higher-rated albums instead. Still, recommended for fans of Lana Lane and this style of light prog/AOR-style music.