(11-15-2019, 11:59 PM)Mangar Wrote: A new album would be a nice treat, though I'm not counting on it. And I don't mean any disrespect, but in a way, I think a new album without Paul at the helm would be refreshing. For me, NC and LFTL both felt a bit soulless, as if Paul was working from a formula (oh sure, the over-the-top theatrics were there, but it felt hollow to me, compared to the previous albums.)
I couldn't agree more, particularly with LFTL. What those albums are missing is Bob Kinkel. Bob did some production on NC, but as it was recorded mostly in Florida, Bob wasn't nearly as involved in its creation as he was on previous albums. And of course LFTL had zero Bob involvement. Those first four albums really benefited from from Bob's superior musicianship, production and arranging skills, and to me, there is something noticeably lacking without him. There are still some fine performances on NC and LFTL and a few stand-out tracks, but the albums as a whole pale in comparison to the the first four albums imho.
(11-15-2019, 11:59 PM)Mangar Wrote: With Al or Jon possibly taking a more active role in putting a new album together, we might end up with something that takes TSO forward or, at the very least, feels a bit more heartfelt and a bit less mechanical. Of course, I'm sure a new album would have a ton of Paul's influence, and it should, but adding a fresh perspective could help.
I also really wish they'd take the Nightwish approach and work with a real symphony. For a band that calls itself Trans-Siberian Orchestra, their "orchestra" often sounds remarkably like a keyboard synth, especially on LFTL.
Well said.
I guess we'll see if TSO's management and Paul's daughter decide that recording and releasing a new album is in the act's best interest. And if so, if they will continue down Paul's path of trying to establish TSO as a non-Christmas entity as well.