Since 1978, Saga has been one of the most consistent bands in the world, releasing twenty-one studio albums including their latest, “20/20.” The Canadian progressive rock band shows no signs of slowing down, and their latest album marks the return of Michael Sadler on vocals. What makes “20/20” work is that it sounds like classic Saga. Some highfalutin critics may dismiss “20/20” as an album that sounds stuck in the past, but let’s be honest, if a band like AC/DC recorded a dance song, people would freak out. So I say, thank you Saga for remaining true to your sound.
From the opening notes of “Six Feet Under,” it is clear that Sadler still has his vocal chops. Aside from the overproduced track “One of These Days,” Sadler’s voice comes through in the mix and sounds as powerful as ever on the ballads and the rockers.
What really makes “20/20” work though, is the guitar work of Ian Crichton. He sounds like a guitar God, nailing solid rhythm parts on tracks like “Anywhere You Wanna Go,” and “Spin it Again,” and throughout the album he plays guitar solos that cut through the mix like a warm knife in butter.
While “20/20” may not be the definitive Saga album, it is a great addition to the bands catalogue that will definitely please their fan base, and will likely please marginal fans as well. It’s the type of album one would expect from Saga, and that is meant as a compliment.
