Customer Reviews

The Human Condition

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Saga has moved on from Michael Sadler's influence and presence as a band member. I'm sure that most Saga fans have been curious as to how the adventure of a new singer, and new direction would turn out. If you were only to hear the opening instrumental, which is very good, you would feel that things have changed a little bit, but this is still Saga.

But, after you pass that first musical piece, which could have fit nicely on 10,000 days - if that disc didn't already have a better instrumental - which it does, the change in sound and direction is nothing short of a complete evolution. Saga is now a totally different band. There is not a slight departure from the recognizable Saga signature sound, or even a strong departure, but, a total, and almost complete departure.

This change may result in the discouragement of a large percentage of fans. It certainly has been difficult for me.

That is not to say that the album is without merit, it's just not the Saga we have known for the last 30 years. If the band was trying to make a complete break from the past sound, they certainly accomplished it.

But, like I said, the album does have merit. The new singer is definitely a plus. He has a distinctive and quality voice. His vocal ability fits well with the new sound of the band. That sound is a heavier, more guitar oriented sound. The musicianship is stellar, melodies are enjoyable/memorable.

Despite my criticism, I think this is an excellent album. Because this band has taken such a different direction away from the Saga sound, they probably ought to consider changing their name. If this review sounds a bit ambiguous - well, maybe it's my "Human Condition."

Like other fans, I was curious yet apprehensive as to Saga's change in front man. This record (Album of the Year, in my opinion) proves the decision to bring Rob Moratti into Saga was a wise one... and the man pulls a Tour de Force in The Human Condition.

Moratti has clear diction, a wide sonic register, excellent intonation, youth and with it a new perspective, and even more importantly a true gift for melody (you will be re-playing these songs). No doubt, he is a great singer. On the negative side, he can be at times a bit nasal-sounding, his vibrato is not only rather mundane (too quick/nervous sounding) but used too frequently... and doesn't have an iconic/instantly recognizable/distinct timbre but the latter may actually work in favor of this band in getting some airplay.

"Avalon" is an instant classic and a singer's climb uphill yet Moratti delivers effortlessly - HE is clearly THE song in this case.

"Now Is Now" is a gorgeous song and it is full of radio potential. Gilmour pulls a lightning fast sequence which reminds you this is SAGA. Moratti's is in top form and his melodic hooks are true assets to the song. "Now Is Now" features Ian's best guitar solo of the album which begins somewhat uncharacteristic (seems inspired by some of Alex Lifeson's work in that Holy Trinity called RUSH) and later shifts into a blend of rapid muted/pizzicato riffs and over-the-top bends which are a Crichton trademark.

The last minute and a half of "Hands of Time" is both impressive and soul foul - STUNNING delivery from Moratti. Ian's brief solos are tasteful and atmospheric.

"Step Inside" is a brilliantly produced piece with two main inter-playing motifs both laced with a heavy Dream Theater-type character. Moratti offers an interesting and haunting descending hook which often prompts for replay.

"You Look Good To Me" is a song only Saga could pull off: Encapsulated within the framework of a classic sing-along chorus that could remind you of the day when David Lee Roth sung "Jump" in Van Halen or "Just a Gigolo". - at the 3+ minutes mark, absolutely unexpected - mesmerizing/classic SAGA sounds take over like the more progressive parts in "Ice Nice" (from Saga's own debut album). The arrangement is SHEER GENIUS... BRILLIANT!!!!! Progressive Rock Saga-styled at its best. Bass guitar (a bit low on the mix) and drums provide a tasteful and playful structure here.

"A Number With A Name" could have easily made it to any Saga album from "Full Circle" onwards with two great twists: Gilmour's chromatic riff around the 3:00 mark (reminds one of some of the work of Keith Emerson) works great here and Ian's solo is spectacular.

"Let It Go" - Often reminiscent of Dream Theater while it moves forward like a freight train yet unmistakably SAGA.

"Crown of Thorns" - has the best drum part of the album, too bad it is intermittent and the drummer sometimes goes to a very basic rhythm keeping function which is - in my opinion - one of the ever-present weaknesses of this epic band. Why are one the best rock guitar players (Ian) and one of the best keyboard players (Gilmour) perennially accompanied by ordinary drum sections? In any event, the rhythm section in "Crown of Thorns" is right on; it is amplifying the excitement brought upon by the resident virtuosos - which is what the music calls for: full participation rather than mere metronomic support.

Finally, no review of this GREAT ALBUM would be fair without offering recognition to the album's cover art, which is absolutely gorgeous; true ART... too bad it cannot be appreciated here with a low-resolution .JPG

I am really looking forward to a SAGA concert here in Puerto Rico in support of this great album and if Michael Sadler can be persuaded to sing a few of the classic songs even better. I suspect many in the public will be teary-eyed in either case.

In the meantime: GET THIS ALBUM (along with the last few Saga albums: Trust, Network and 10,000 days which are also great).

I am not a die hard Saga fan. Like so many other people (my age) I loved the Worlds Apart album but I've been up and down through the intervening years with my enthusiasm. Then I heard that Michael Sadler was leaving the band and I wondered if Saga would soldier on without him. I'm here to tell you that they are not soldiering on at all. This new album rocks and not just one or two tracks either. The whole album is great with a very fresh sound, hard rocking, and great production. After my first listen I started wondering when they would make another one. Now that's high praise. Go to their web site sagaontour.ca and listen to a few of the new tracks. I bet you will need to buy the album within just a few minutes. Great job Saga. I hope you will get to tour the lower 48!

It's was 30 years ago that SAGA released there Debut and appealed to the underground of hungry fans waiting for a band with flash, theatricality and virtuosity to come around. Now, It's 31 years later...and things have changed, Founding member and long lasting lead singer Michael Sadler is no longer with SAGA after years of constant touring and album after album year after year.

SAGA decided to "Rock On" and continue forth and with a little luck they're back on the runaway train rocking and rolling again in this latest chapter of the ongoing SAGA.

The New Singer: Rob Moratti

Now, as i have already witnessed you will either "Love Or Hate" this guy. He sounds nothing like his predecessor, but once you understand that SAGA never wanted a Michael Sadler Rip-Off and Realize just how great this guy's voice is, you will love this album.

For One, it has to be there most powerful, progressive and refreshing piece of work in a long time...it's still SAGA but with a twist of enlightenment to it.

THE HUMAN CONDITION - The Album Begins with this instrumental that just sucks you in and never lets you go...the band sounds tight, professional and strong as ever.

STEP INSIDE - Classic SAGA mixed with a bit of a Metallic Edge to it. great, and just an instant hit...it rocks and you finally hear what this Rob Moratti guy can pull off.

HANDS OF TIME - Another Classic SAGA track, a ballad, but not a cheesy one...this one is relaxing, smoothing and never ever lets go of you thinking that this is none other than SAGA.

AVALON - Wow, Another Great Song...Great Working Melodies, Catchy Hooks, Great Guitar Licks, Very Atmospheric, Makes You Think You're On Top Of The Scottish Highlands.

A NUMBER WITH A NAME - Sounds Somewhat Similar To "BOOK OF LIES" from the previous album, but carries that refreshing new burst of SAGA sound.

NOW IS NOW - Whoah, This Track Will Most Definitely blow you away, it's probably the stand-out track on the album (experimentally) it shows you what these guys can do, the solo is amazing, the vocals are beyond superior, it's just magic!

LET IT GO - A classic hard rocking SAGA track, and just rocks!

CROWN OF THORNS - SAGA becoming Metallic, as the guitars get pumped up and heavier here...it just throws you and never lets go!

YOU LOOK GOOD TO ME - This Song will remind many long time fans of tracks such as "Take A Chance" and "Way Of The World" as It Has A Happy Vibe Throughout and Is A Very Good Feel-Good Song...Great Way To End An Amazing Album.

WOW, well..."The Human Condition" is a must have and i'm sure it will open up to a new generation of SAGA fans...It Rocks and every track is superior, not one bad one on here...SAGA doesn't disappoint. It Truly is the rebirth of SAGA, and the big question is: " Musically, Where Can SAGA Go On There Follow-Up ?"

I've been a fan of Saga since I first saw "Don't Be late" on MTV and went on an immediate Saga spending spree. The Human Condition (like some other reviewers have said here) is a complete departure from the classic Saga sound that have dominated their releases this past decade.

Fans of progressive rock will embrace the new Saga with open arms (and ears!) as I have. These guys are how old? They're rockin' like a 20 something band - I was blown away after the 1st track and was hooked after 2 spins. I loved Sadler's vocals and will always go back to the "original" Saga when in the mood, but the new Saga leaves me wanting more...much more.

Well with the new singer coming in replacing the much loved Michael Sadler, not to many Saga fans thought the band would sound the same and they were right. This band has indeed changed it's sound. It's still a prog offering, buts it's sound is updated and a little more mainstream. The sound quality is excellent and the tunes are solid. The new singer is very talented and has without a doubt put his stamp on the Saga sound.

For all the die hards out there, don't go down the "it'll never be the same" route with this band as the new guy and the rock solid tunes show that Saga is still a band to be reckoned with. This release is very fresh sounding in many ways and yet manages to hold on to the parts of the old band (for lack of a better term) that really bring this new outfit together.

If you ask me, this is one of Saga's better releases lately and deserves at least a spin or two in your cd player before you past judgement.

Give it a chance, it's pretty damn good.

The only shortcoming is that there are only 9 songs on this collection. I don't know how a person would only be suffice in looking for one song to stick out; we are talking about Saga here. There still are a few gems on this one. Some heavier Dream Theaterish songs appear, and that is a new twist that does work with the new vocalist. I actually found the drumming to be better than any recent releases by Saga, and that was contrary to other reports that I read. I do have a few favorites on this CD, but it is the whole project that really sounds so good. Maybe your mood will dictate if this is for you at the time, but a relaxing drive with this disc is really enhanced. Keyboards are good, but I would enjoyed one of the solo songs that is many times done; still not worth knocking it down to a 4 star. I would lightly lean towards a 5 star, and that is with the respect of what this band did accomplish in a short time. Very good for prog fans in general. Saga fans may wince, but it did not bother me one bit. I feel they are a little better without Sadler now. Initially I would have given this a 4 star, but several more listens shows that this one really grows on you. That is something to look for! "Now is now", "step inside", and "crown of thorns" are really amazing works; all very different in sound and production.

I've been a Saga fan for many years and was disappointed when Micheal Sadler left the band. But wow to my surprize Sagas first album without Sadler was very well done. Rob Moratti does a nice job adding his voice to the Saga sound. Song I like The most Hands Of Time,Now Is Now, Let It Go and Crown Of Thorns. As of this review Rob has left the band and Michael is back. Hopefully Saga keeps this CDs songs in their live set with Michael.

As with a lot of Saga fans, I have been listening to the band since the day I heard "Careful Where You Step" on CHEZ 106 out of Ottawa in 1980. Those two albums, "Silent Knight" and the one that followed "Worlds Apart" in 1981 were absolutely fantastic and kick started my love of progressive rock. I spun these two albums (on LP at that time) until the needle worn them into audio fuzz.

The albums that followed and ever since have not captured my attention at all. Sure they all "sound" like Saga, but the energy and production just seemed to not be there. I started getting into them again a few years ago but everything I heard was mediocre at best.

Then along comes "The Human Condition"... and I can say that my opinion of this band has been completely renewed. The production, vocals, and musicianship capture the essence of those early albums easily... as if they just picked up where they left off in 1981.

The sound is still Saga, but more of a progressive pop direction, similar to songs from Worlds Apart. Guitar work is more prominent (good!), and the complex soloing and jamming is all there and VERY good. They actually wander into some jazz scales in some sections which makes me wonder if that is the lead singers influence. I like it! The lead singer has a fantastic voice. I would prefer that the harmonies were not mostly 4ths and 5ths.... but thats just me.

On a whole I am very excited about this new direction the band is taking. Anyone disillusioned by post-Worlds Apart Saga should listen to this!!

I think i have the complete Saga work. This one spent some time on the shelf as i feared the band will not survive Michael Sadler's departure.

This is not the Saga i used to know...but this is a brilliant heavy FM prog album, more straightforward, powerful, with a good production (what has so often missed Saga, -i dream of a Saga album produced by Bruce Fairbairn!)

Some songs are strangely sounding like Toto's or Queensryche's....


5 stars! the story goes on!