The Box Redux

Album Review

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The Box Redux

Ian Gordon

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If you're a regular Prog Radio listener, then Ian Gordon's unique sound should be of no surprise to you. While he might not currently resonate with the masses as a mainstream icon (yet), at Prog Radio, he's a beacon of talent. A masterful multi-instrumentalist, a versatile vocalist with an uncanny knack for channeling David Bowie when so inclined, and a gifted producer, one often wonders why Ian isn't more widely known. Could it be his penchant for the darker shades of prog? But then again, in the prog world, darkness often illuminates.

One of his standout creations is the 2011 double-concept album, "The Box." Rumblings of Ian's desire to reimagine this masterpiece had been echoing for quite a while. In his quest for perfection, it seemed he even made the original album a coveted rarity. After months of meticulous reworking, the result is finally here: "The Box Redux."

I approached this new version with a mix of anticipation and skepticism. How could he enhance what was already a great record?

Having cherished the original album, frequently featuring many of its tracks on our station, I approached this new version with a mix of anticipation and skepticism. How could he enhance what was already a great record? But when I delved into the "Redux," it felt as though the original was merely a demo leading up to this polished gem. A side-by-side comparison of tracks like "Transcendence" from both versions will elucidate my sentiment.

"The Box Redux" has an elevated finesse that I hadn't perceived as missing in the first place. It really feels like a new album. Here's hoping this rendition finally propels it into the limelight it rightfully deserves. If you missed The Box the first time around in 2011, then lucky you--you get a second chance to get to know and love this great album.

Stay tuned to Prog Radio. We're always showcasing a rich array of Ian Gordon's discography, but look for a special emphasis on tracks from "The Box Redux" in the upcoming weeks. Dive in, and experience the evolution of this prog rock gem.