Paragon
Dead and Alive
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
Paragon makes a return after their 1984 release, Just Believe. "Forsake All" calls us to deny ourselves, forsake everything and follow Jesus. Musically, they sound more commercial than before, while still retaining their Rush-type progressiveness. "Roche de Ballade" is a power ballad that achieved quite a bit of success on one of Seattle's radio stations. "Give Him Glory" is a rocker, complete with screams and a pounding rhythm. I couldn't help thinking that this song started out with some good direction, but never went anywhere. The average mix didn't help much either. "Dead and Alive" slows down at intervals, before charging ahead with fast rhythms and leads. "Heaven Metal": Now this one I was real curious to hear. It's a high energy rocker with lots of wailing and carrying on. What are we gonna do with the youth of today? Overall, the feeling I get when listening to this is "Wow. Hot musicians, but maybe a little over-indulgent in their progressiveness." Send $7 to: Paragon, PO Box 326, Bremerton WA 98310.