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Hemisphere

Unity

Review by Gary Hill

I previously reviewed another set from this act. I landed that one under prog, but this one definitely doesn't fit there. I had an issue on that album with the amount of adult-contemporary based stuff. That problem is at least as big an issue this time. I'd consider that release the more interesting and exciting one of the two. That said, there is still plenty of solid music here. Nothing is bad. A lot of it just doesn't seem that inspiring to real resonate all that well.

This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2022  Volume 4. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2022.

Track by Track Review
Blue Sky
There is a great energy and symphonic meets jazz groove over the top of parts of this number. There are some proggy twists and turns on this. It's catchy, invigorating and so cool.
Rebel Rebel
Here we get a reggae arrangement on the David Bowie classic. It's a little odd, but also pretty cool.
Bring the Magic Back
Jazz and reggae are both on display on this killer groove. I think this song really elevates things. It just works so well.
Mr. Moonbeam
This song is built around a smooth adult contemporary groove. It has some jazz elements. It's pretty classy stuff.
Open Your Eyes
An adult contemporary styled number, this has a cool groove and a lot of style. It's mellower and not one of my favorites, though.
Younger Days
There is a healthy helping of smooth jazz in the mix on this tune. It's another classy song.
The One
Another melodic tune, this combines rock, jazz and more into an adult contemporary styled piece. It's not bad, but it's a little lackluster.
Laura in the Moonlight
Not a big change from the melodic territory of the previous cut, this gets elevated a bit with a soaring movement later in the tune.
Find Your Way Home
Now, this is more like it. There is plenty of cool jazz built into this invigorated song. This is catchy, fun and so cool.
Shadowland
Mellower sounds are on display on this tune. It has some dramatic moods and tones. There are symphonic elements bringing a special magic. This is jazzy in a lot of ways.
Power to the People
This is a classy and energetic number that works really well. There is a unique, more stripped back closing section that serves to ground the album.
 
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