Stereotomy (1985)
Stereotomy is the 9th studio album by The Alan Parsons Project, and it unfortunately breaks the bands long running No Skip Album streak. The record, like the previous 8, showcase the band's signature sound, with lush orchestration, intricate arrangements, and intricate melodies. However, while Stereotomy features some of the Alan Parsons Project's more ambitious and experimental tracks, the record as a whole feels somewhat disjointed and less focused than a lot of their other works. Apparently this is due in part to the fact that the album was recorded during a period of transition for the band, with key members leaving and new musicians joining. While listening to the record, you can hear the new influence of new members and lacking influence from those who have left.
Despite this, Stereotomy still contains some standout tracks, such as the title track, which features a pulsing synth riff and a soaring guitar solo. It is a rock icon for the ages. Limelight is another highlight, with its atmospheric soundscape. Where's the Walrus? is a quirky instrumental that shows off the band's experimental spirit. It is the better of the two instrumentals on the record and should be ranked pretty high in their overall instrumentals as well.
In The Real World is a rather generic rock number. It kind of feels like the group was covering an Asia song. Beaujolais is upbeat but doesn’t really get stuck in your head like it aims to do. The track supposedly explores the dark side of the wine industry but it unfortunately just comes off rather bland and forgettable. Could have a really cool song, but lacked the proper execution it needed.
It must also be mentioned that the final two “songs” are essentially filler. They are interludes and reprises that don’t add much to the record. Chinese Whispers and Stereotomy Two don’t serve much of a purpose to Stereotomy. Lyrically, the record explores the darker side of technology and urbanization, with songs that address themes such as alienation, disconnection, and the loss of human connection. The concept is not at all as in your face and prevalent like the bands earlier work and that is one of the multitude of reasons that Stereotomy falls short of the mark.
While Stereotomy may not be as airtight or cohesive as some of the Alan Parsons Project's other albums, it still contains some decent tracks that are worth an auditory glance over.
——————————————
Highlight Songs:
Stereotomy
Where’s The Walrus?
Limelight
——————————————
Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
I would suggest streaming it. This is the first Alan Parsons Project record that I’ve suggested to not own and it’s because you really only need the title track. Some other highlight songs are good, but aren’t necessarily great. Throw Stereotomy onto your rock playlist and call it a day.
——————————————
Overall Rating:
3 Stars
