Saga: 20/20

20/20 marks the popular Canadian ensemble's 20th release. Here, original vocalist Michael Sadler rejoins the unit, and adds melodious overtones to its stylish, cross-functional melding of pop-rock, progressive rock and progressive metal. Enamored by a first-rate production and a largely memorable track mix, the artists go for the gusto, synchronizing technical veracity with surging rock anthems. On an album short on filler material, Saga divulges high-caliber musicianship with thrusting pulses, climactic crescendos and tricky time signatures.

"Anywhere You Wanna Go" is a prime example of the artists' ability to bridge the gap between catchy, radio-friendly pop and high-velocity rock, with a souped-up, heavily amplified inference to fabled British band, XTC. This piece could surface as a cover tune for other units.

Add guitarist Ian Crichton's steamy legato lines atop Jim Gilmour's swirling electric keys, and the tuneful storyline takes on a bit of a hard-nosed edge. It's a composition that is indicative of the band's commercial appeal, yet also counterbalances its driving technical focus while touching upon the various modalities and timeworn approaches of the progressive rock idiom.

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