Work Of Art: In Progress

A pure-AOR masterclass.

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It’s been quite a time for pure- AOR projects; the second album from Work Of Art following hot on the heels of Lionville’s immaculate debut.

Given that WOA’s Lars Säfsund had a hand in the latter and is also a member of the highly acclaimed WET, you might say things are becoming slightly incestuous, though there will be few complaints should Säfsund continue to produce music of the scope and quality of In Progress.

The Swedes spent two years sculpting this album with Bo Reiner, a producer who pays his bills by working with Westlife and The Backstreet Boys, but shares the trio’s fanboy obsession with such acts as Journey, Giant and especially Toto.

From the moment that In Progress begins with a surging, joyous The Rain to the final chords of The Great Fall, Work Of Art turn in an almost faultless vocal and musical display. This is well worth the wait.

Dave Ling

Dave Ling was a co-founder of Classic Rock magazine. His words have appeared in a variety of music publications, including RAW, Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Prog, Rock Candy, Fireworks and Sounds. Dave’s life was shaped in 1974 through the purchase of a copy of Sweet’s album ‘Sweet Fanny Adams’, along with early gig experiences from Status Quo, Rush, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Yes and Queen. As a lifelong season ticket holder of Crystal Palace FC, he is completely incapable of uttering the word ‘Br***ton’.