JON ANDERSON
"Song of Seven: Remastered and
Expanded" (Esoteric; 1980/2020)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Here's something you don't usually see here on RoughEdge.com: a review of an album that is unabashedly, unashamedly, happy. Most of the music you read about here on Rough Edge is driven by rage or power or sex. Jon Anderson's "Song of Seven" is pretty much the opposite of that. It's a celebration of joy and happiness.
Originally released back in 1980 during Jon's first hiatus from the legendary Yes, "Song of Seven" is full of optimistic, joyous progressive rock tunes that fans of Anderson and Yes will find instantly appealing. Of course, I know that others will think it's like nails on a chalkboard. I, myself, having never listened to the album upon its initial release, found it refreshing and entertaining throughout.
Again, having not listened to the original, I can't compare the sound quality of this version and the original version, but I will tell you this: This remastered edition sounds fresh, crisp and clear, as though it were recorded ten years ago as opposed to forty. As for the "expanded" portion, there are two promotional edits included here, for "Some are Born" and "Heart of the Matter," both of which sound fine but I'm not sure what the value of these "promotional edits" really is, unless, perhaps, you're a completist.
If you're a progressive rock fan, there's no doubt you're familiar with Jon Anderson's work and will find this re-release of "Song of Seven" at least worth a listen.
For more information, check out https://www.jonanderson.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright ? 2021 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
