Flying Colors - Second nature (Mascot Label Group)
In number nine, we have the second album from supergroup Flying Colors...
It is worth mentioning that this prog supergroup started as an idea of producer Bill Evans, who in the second album is again present, helping the position of producer / engineer. Composition and production was done mainly by the band itself here and probably this is the reason why "Second Nature" sounds quite diversified in relation to their debut and -as perhaps some already suspect- much more prog.The mere fact that the album opens and closes with two 12 minute epics should speak for itself. Additionally, the structures are more adventurous, the pop element is reduced, while Neal Morse has significantly greater role as a singer, either alone, or by sharing the role with McPherson in many compositions. Starting with the "Open Up Your Eyes" gorgeous piano, subsequently continuing with the "Mask Machine" striking a good balance between commerciality and quality. "Bombs Away" is the most groovy and dynamic disk composition without compromising on melody, even including parts reminiscent of Spock's Beard. The rest of the album also flows beautifully juggling between commercial songs and prog masterpieces. I admit that "Second Nature" exceeded my expectations with the five great musicians that make up Flying Colors combining forces and creating a multi-level and truly impressive work.
97/100
Below is the music video from aforementioned album track "Mask Machine"
It is worth mentioning that this prog supergroup started as an idea of producer Bill Evans, who in the second album is again present, helping the position of producer / engineer. Composition and production was done mainly by the band itself here and probably this is the reason why "Second Nature" sounds quite diversified in relation to their debut and -as perhaps some already suspect- much more prog.The mere fact that the album opens and closes with two 12 minute epics should speak for itself. Additionally, the structures are more adventurous, the pop element is reduced, while Neal Morse has significantly greater role as a singer, either alone, or by sharing the role with McPherson in many compositions. Starting with the "Open Up Your Eyes" gorgeous piano, subsequently continuing with the "Mask Machine" striking a good balance between commerciality and quality. "Bombs Away" is the most groovy and dynamic disk composition without compromising on melody, even including parts reminiscent of Spock's Beard. The rest of the album also flows beautifully juggling between commercial songs and prog masterpieces. I admit that "Second Nature" exceeded my expectations with the five great musicians that make up Flying Colors combining forces and creating a multi-level and truly impressive work.
97/100
Below is the music video from aforementioned album track "Mask Machine"
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