Prog Radio | Album Review | ''The ? Truth'' by Seven Steps to the Green Door

Album Review

Have a new album you'd like us to review? Let us know.

4.5

Stars

The ? Truth

Seven Steps to the Green Door

637

Germany

From one of the hardest working people in prog, Marek Arnold, along with his long-time partner in prog, Ulf Reinhardt, comes the third and final installment of their "?" trilogy, "The ? Truth." This album, released by Germany's neo-prog/symphonic prog band Seven Steps to the Green Door, is their sixth overall album and showcases an impressive evolution in their sound and storytelling.

The album features a robust lineup, with core members Marek Arnold on keyboards and saxophones and Ulf Reinhardt on drums and percussion, joined by an ensemble of over a dozen vocalists, including notable names like Peter Jones, Larry B., and Manuel Schmid. This diverse array of voices adds depth and character to the storytelling, making each track a distinct and engaging experience. The ambitious nature of this project is evident not only in its length (over 71 minutes) but in the intricate compositions and arrangements.

If now and then, like me, you enjoy some dramatic storytelling with your prog (ala Samurai of Prog, another one of the many projects Marek is involved with), you’ll love this album.

Musically, "The ? Truth" is perhaps the most ambitious and complex effort from Seven Steps to the Green Door. The tracks are diverse and richly textured, seamlessly blending elements of progressive rock, art rock, and even moments of progressive metal (including a touch of harsh/growl vocals, but just a touch and part of the storytelling). Standout tracks like the epic "Africa" and the dynamic "Alpha & Omega III" highlight the band’s ability to craft compelling narratives through their music. Each song is meticulously produced, ensuring that the intricate layers and musical ideas are presented with clarity and impact.

Overall, "The ? Truth" is a solid album from Seven Steps to the Green Door. It’s a fitting conclusion to their "?" trilogy, offering a blend of ambitious storytelling and musical prowess. The band's ability to consistently deliver high-quality, engaging music makes this album a standout in their catalog and a must-listen for fans of neo-prog and symphonic prog.

If now and then, like me, you enjoy some dramatic storytelling with your prog (ala Samurai of Prog, another one of the many projects Marek is involved with), you’ll love this album, and want to get the first two "books" as well. You will also want to download the free Storybook for the full trilogy, available from their website, linked below.

Tune in to Prog Radio to hear tracks from this excellent album and look for it to be featured in Monday’s “What’s New Proggy Cats?” show.

4.5 Stars