Jeff Cannata has crossed a long-lasting route in music and he still has the ability to amaze us, for he never compromises with his achievements; on the contrary he always pursue his self-transcendence. Former member of the Jasper Wrath (a progressive rock band that also featured James Christian) and, later on, of the mighty Arc Angel (their album in 1983 is esteemed as the definition of pomp AOR) he followed solo career to date, with occasional releases. His music always verges among two genres: prog rock & AOR, and together with his spiritual / mystical orientation, which becomes obvious on lyrics & artwork, Jeff Cannata has rendered to us some extraordinaire pieces of work.
His music has specific benchmarks, such as: symphonic arrangements, demanding and often ambiguous lyrics, dominant keyboards, ethnic hints, melodic vocals, majestic AOR hook lines and, finally, all the aforementioned virtues get together in a progressive wrapping up. With “Mysterium Magnum” he delivers his most varied album and a concept based on the human destiny in a world so controversial. The songs, therefore, serve this cause, through various musical genres. “4:17 California” with its appealing flute, the ethereal vocals alongside with the true confession, through a haunting rhythm created by the keys & guitar sound, of “Tears Of America” are both fine examples of Cannata’s sharp & thoughtful lyrics. Also, he reworked on two of Arc Angel AOR anthems, “King Of The Mountain” & “Wanted: Dead Or Alive”, which they have now a completely up to date sound. “Promise You Heaven” offers a corking melody with a Genesis feel, while “Life 101”with his up tempo and mid tempo turns reminds Kansas and it’s enhanced by an attractive guitar solo and some beautiful vocals. “Kali Allah” and its dual vocal harmonies, the tribal sound of drums and the keyboards solo by Jeff Batter (House Of Lords, Jasper Wrath) & “Kali Allah: reprise” with its ethnic touch, are two more fine moments, together with the classy “Reason To Live”. The opener “Spirit Of The Four Winds” begins with whispering vocals and, leaning on a tight rhythm section, becomes a highlight, as the tempo is altered and through the distorted guitar solos concludes: “Spirit of the 4 winds, guide us, remind us, unite us”. “Somewhere Beyond The Sun” is the album’s jewel. During its 8.48 minutes of pure 70’s symphonic prog style and via keys, flute, frantic guitar solos by Jimi Bell (House Of Lords, again!) this definitely is the most progressive track that Cannata have ever released.
Jeff Cannata has on offer a superb specimen of proggish AOR, way better than efforts of the likes of GPS’s last year. If bands like Asia, Spock’s Beard, Jadis, Ozric Tentacles, Yes, Saga, Caravan or Kansas are your cup of tea, then don’t hesitate. Highly recommended!
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