Steve McAllister I Hope You are Okay Review by Gary Hill
This release almost fits under progressive rock. That’s because a number of the songs here fit in with modern moody prog and art music. There are enough mainstream alternative rock things to keep it just outside of that zone, though. No matter how you label this, it’s an effective and diverse album that works quite well.
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Track by Track Review
Because I Love You Too Much
Piano starts this. There is a weird electronic percussive element that feels a little like a hiss. The music takes on a moody, artsy approach for the entrance of the vocals. This is classy and unusual stuff that’s both classic and modern. It really feels like moody neo-prog.
Something In The Water
Alternative rock and more mainstream old school rock merge on this. There are hints of Beatles-like pop rock in the mix, too. This is a classy tune, but definitely a fire cry from the magic that was the opener.
Roll On
I really dig the slide guitar work on this. The cut has a mix of blues rock and alternative at play. It’s another solid tune. I think I’d land it somewhere between the first two in terms of effectiveness.
Get Yourself Together
A little more on the artsy side, there is a soulful, jazzy edge to this one.
No
This is dreamy, moody and very artsy. It has a Porcupine Tree meets Pink Floyd vibe to it.
The 3rd Side Of An Egg
Now, this piece is really full on modern prog. It’s slow moving, moody and dramatic. I like it so much. In fact, this might be my favorite piece of music here.
On It Like A Narcotic
This is more of a straight rocker. It has some cool melodic rock angles and edges to it.
Sunshine Ladies
Those Beatles-like things are at play here. This is another strong cut. The instrumental break moves a little toward prog.
A Letter To My Son
Roots music along with singer songwriter elements make up the concept of this track.
Sailor's Waltz
Less than two minutes long, piano starts this. This is another that has a moody, modern prog vibe to it. It’s almost a lullaby, particularly at the start.