Short Reviews [ Elegant Simplicity - 2000 - "The Story of Our Lives" ]

Until now, I preferred "Purity and Despair" (1998, all instrumental) to any of the band’s other albums. In my detailed review I even called it "The Snow Goose, Part 2" (Camel drew the album in 1975), with a note though, that these two tracks are quite original. Now, the new album seems to be even weightier than the above one. Like the great majority of Steven's creation in general, it is a conceptual thing, even though without lyrics: 50 minutes of music, which is melodic, and yet surprisingly diverse, throughout the album. I have much liking for the band; I can't deny it, while I can't stand cloners. By saying so I mean first of all those who take someone's style, and, repeating endlessly, dilute it to the level of a hit. For instance, I can’t accept the debut album by the English band Grey Lady Down. So that's why I have over there the reputation of an oppositionist as regards Neo Prog, albeit it’s untrue as a matter of fact. I have nothing against Neo (very accessible prog), if it is original.

Vitaly Menshikov: September 23, 2002