Canadian act Mystery began life in 1986 as the brain child of Michel St-Pere who later formed Unicorn Records as an outlet for their music. Around 2000 the first era of the band came to a close with the departure of vocalist Gary Savole and the release of the "At The Dawn Of The New Millennium" album. As Unicorn Records took off, it wasn't until 2007 that the band released "Beneath The Veil Of Winter's Face" with new vocalist David Benoit. That album was well received and in fact gained top spot in Dr Music annual top 10 list ahead of acts like Dream Theater.
It is now 2010 and David Benoit is also a member of Yes, replacing Jon Anderson on vocals. In fact, this album was recorded just prior to recording of new Yes material. Back in 2007 activity at Mood Swings was minimal as I finished off some part time study and Mystery's album got bunched in with the other Unicorn releases and didn't really get the attention it deserved. One characteristic of the album I do remember was that the album took a while to grow on me and this new album also took quite few listens for the understated presentation to work its magic.
Mystery play neo-progressive rock with pomp and melodic rock overtones. On the slow to mid-tempo tracks the band really excel. That means that for me the the menacing "The Falling Man" and the uptempo "Kameleon Man" are the low spots on the album, although they do provide the album with the some necessary variations in style. The centerpiece of the album in the 22 min epic torch song "Through Different Eyes" which yields its best when you let go, don't do anything else and immerse yourself in the music.
This is one of those albums which isn't an instant proposition, but does have sufficient substance to keep you onboard while each listen reveals at little more of the layers of work put in by the band. Maybe it is just my imagination, but I think this album edges on the progressive side, whereas "Beneath The Veil Of Winter's Face" has a bit more of a melodic rock influence coming through which just about keeps it a fraction ahead in my personal preferences. However, either or both albums would be good additions to your collection.
Rating: 4 stars
