Customer Reviews

Red Planet Boulevard

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

 

 

The music and lyrics on this album are very interesting. Lana Lane does not always impress with her singing ability, but I love her voice. There's something about her overall presentation that has intrigued me for years. Another solid album, thanks again Lana!

Lana Lane has created yet another interesting and enjoyable progressive rock album. While this album is not my favorite, there's still a lot here to appreciate. Red Planet Boulevard is another artistic production from who I think is the queen of progressive metal.

Red Planet Boulevard is Lana Lane's hardest work so far. For the last several years, Lana and husband / producer Eric Nordlander have released a series of progressive albums, making extensive use of ethereal keyboard-oriented arrangements. Here, however, the keyboards are kept discretely in the background, and the music is much more guitar-driven. The songs are faster-paced, but at the same time feature Lana's trademarks, engaging melodies and soaring vocals. Running nearly 70 minutes, the CD sustains interest throughout. This is a good release by an underrated artist.

The Good
Galloping guitars and pulsing keyboards complement Lane's sultry vocals on "Into the Fire." An epic introduction gives way to subtle verses that focus squarely on Lane's beautiful melodies on "The Frozen Sea." The chorus section brings back the guitars to recapture the earlier epic effect. "Jessica" is an ear catching ballad with emotional and heartfelt lyrics. "Lazy Summer Day" harkens back to an earlier prog-rock sound, with mellow grooves, trippy guitar tones, and subdued keyboards. "Save the World" keeps the 70s rock sound alive and well, and has Lane doing her best Ann Wilson vocals. "Red Planet Boulevard" gives the backing band a chance to shine with a momentous instrumental. Normally it would be keyboardist Erik Norlander taking center stage, but guitarist Peer Verschuren makes his presence known.

The Bad
As beautiful as they sound, I thought there were a few too many ballads on this album. I was expecting more of an "Into the Fire" feel.

The Verdict
By far my favorite Lana Lane release was the Lady MacBeth concept album. Red Planet Boulevard seems to be taking the same story telling path, but with a theme it takes a while to figure out. As always Lana is at her vocal best with her angelic and soulful sounds. The backing band gels really well too. I just wish the subject matter and total output was a little more powerful and interesting.