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Ian Parry- Visions

Somewhere between the power metal of tenor vocalist Parry's former band Elegy and his highly conceptual series of works known as The Consortium Project (one of the other Ayreons), lies his latest effort (under the solo moniker) known as Visions. This time the record tends to be more song driven than CP and more melodically tinged than Elegy, so it's like he took the best of both worlds and put them into this new record.***

But don't get me wrong, he does put his elaborate production skills to work here, however, proof positive, it's the songwriting that puts the focus on the more down-to-earth approach involved. Nevertheless, there are plenty of musicians and even guest vocalists involved on Visions, so again, we have the whole stronghold of a "project" atmosphere.***

Musically, cuts such as "Fools Don't Cry," the emotional "(For) Another Day," and "Smiley People" are the ditties that express the passionate verve for anthem choruses, hooks, and catchy riffs. The counterparts are tracks like "Lovin' a Stranger," the atmospheric "Angels," and the title track that bring a higher level of progressive elements forth, hence the synth & vocal soundscapes.**

Visions marks a more accessible approach to the symphonic rock, but then again, it's really a mixture of AOR, progressive metal, and melodic rock/metal; it just depends on which song is playing. So when asked, what which subgenera of the above does the record stand for, the answer can simply be, yes.***

Tommy "Hashman" Hash