A Valid Path (2004)
‘A Valid Path’ by Alan Parsons is a curveball in the Alan Parsons discography, but it honestly is amazing in what it was trying to achieve. ‘A Valid Path’ is an electronica record, deviating from Parsons’ traditional sound of lite-prog rock and art rock. The album features 9 standout tracks, all of which incorporate electronic elements in their sound. I didn’t for a second think I was going to put the NSA stamp on Valid Path but dammit .. it deserves it. If you enjoy or can appreciate the electronica genre, then this album is a game changer for you.
Despite the change in style, ‘A Valid Path’ proves to be a very good record. It showcases Parsons' versatility as a musician and producer. The record is filled and layered with electronic soundscapes that transport the listener into a new realm. Parsons has managed to create a very unique sound that blends elements of progressive rock, electronica, and ambient music. The album's opener "Return To Tunguska" sets the tone for everything to come. It begins with an eerie and atmospheric soundscape that gradually builds into a rhythmic beat. It also features the amazing David Gilmour on guitar which helps it become one of the most memorable tracks on the album.
“More Lost Without You" features a catchy synth riff and introduces the albums first set of lyrics and vocals. This is done another time in “You Can Run”. Both are quite modern and poppy and are a fun direction for the album to go. “Mammagamma 04" is a reimagining of the classic track from Parsons' earlier album ‘Eye in the Sky’, and it features pulsating beats and melodic synth hooks. Parsons does this another time on the album with “A Recurring Dream Within a Dream”, which is a reimagining of the very early Alan Parsons Project song “The Raven”. Both are fantastic mixes and offer a lot of freshness to some beloved classics.
All in all, ‘A Valid Path’ is a departure from Alan Parsons' traditional sound, but it is a very good album nonetheless. It showcases Parsons' versatility and his ability to create a unique sound that blends different elements of different genres together. The record is a must-listen for fans of electronic music and progressive rock alike. Trust me!
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Highlight Songs:
Return to Tunguska
A Recurring Dream Within a Dream
You Can Run
L’Arc en ciel
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Absolutely 100% worth owning and I never thought I was going to say that when judging this album by its cover. I was pleasantly surprised and I suggest that it belongs in everyone’s Alan Parsons collection. Buy it, jam to it, shake your ass to it, and go crazy. It is great.
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
