Search - Saga :: Defining Moments (Volume 1)

Catchy

11/05/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I happened upon a Saga album back in the 80s and from the first riff I was instantly hooked! Saga is deffinitely "different" rock music. From the staccato guitar riffs to the progressive flavor of the songs, it's not your everyday rock and roll! I still get a kick out of listening to these tunes, and they still sound as fresh as they did back then. I srongly recomend it!"

Well worth a listen.

sauerkraut | 11/25/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Saga is a Canadian group that I've surprisingly overlooked throughout the years. I'd always heard of them but had never listened to any of their music. I decided to get this greatest hits package in order to acquire an overview of their music. After I'd listened to it for the first time, I had two distinct impressions: that all of the material on the compilation sounded fresh and that Saga also had a progressive edge. I had figured that Saga was a pop rock band--it was a nice surprise to find out that they played pop rock with a progressive touch. Saga is comprised of five members: Michael Sadler (lead vocals/keyboards), Jim Crichton (bass guitar/keyboards), Ian Crichton (lead and acoustic guitars), Jim Gilmour (keyboards), and Steve Negus (drums/percussion). This hits package contains a total of 15 tracks (one is an instrumental called "Nine Lives of Miss Midi") which come from eight releases recorded between 1978-1995. There's no material included from three other albums (one being a live album) that the band has released during this same time period. Saga's musicianship is proficient, while their songwriting skills are also quite impressive. All 15 tracks contain tight and satisfying production, too. Saga does a skillful job with including a good dose of both guitar and keyboard playing in their music (a nice combination and balance). Michael Sadler does a nice job with the vocals--his voice is effective and clear. Ian Crichton also is a talented guitarist. I find all of the songs to be listenable, melodic, and quite impressive. The ones that I especially enjoy are "You and the Night" and "I Walk with You." "You and the Night" is a well-written and beautiful ballad that features nice vocals and atmospheric keyboard playing. "I Walk with You" is also an enjoyable ballad that's serene and contains attractive guitar playing. This hits package is just over 73 minutes in length. Unfortunately, the CD liner notes don't contain a biography of the group. It would have been cool and informative if one had been included. Also, song lyrics aren't included. I find the cover art to be interesting. Saga is a cool band. This hits package is solid, enjoyable, and quite impressive. All of the tracks have something to offer. I actually give this CD 3.5 stars. It's well worth a listen."