"a thoroughly thrilling and exhilarating musical ride" 

by Steve Sheppard, One World Music Radio 

The most expressive art form that lies within the rock genre is without doubt a term we use regularly called progressive. This genre has seen some of the biggest names in the business like ELP, Yes, Genesis, Rush etc. and now with this new release by the band 7 we start another journey through this most illustrious of musical narratives.  

The band is fronted by 2002 artist Randy Copus, who has been likened on many occasions to the Yes front man Jon Anderson, 7 also contains the powerful engine room of Scott Steele on bass and Michael Landino on drums, while joining Copus on guitars and vocals is one Brian Timm.  

There are indeed likenesses to a more modern Yes, but I also found a predilection to one of my other favourite bands in Canadian outfit Rush. Just listen to the funky slap bass in track two On the Bridge, this is even more redolent of the UK’s jazz funk band Level 42, but when all the comparisons have run their course, 7 are actually an exciting fresh and unique band, and listening to the power play of Are You Ready as a fine example of this prog rock genius.  

Tracks like Let it Go are an even larger rubber stamp on this bands beautiful ability to cross genres at a mere whim, and still retain a deserved respect whilst delivering a fluent musical narrative with such consistency, and with offerings like the all-encompassing and formidable Chance of a Lifetime, and the smooth and purposeful Go the Distance, a track that has a lush 90’s feel toit, and then finish with the classy The Knight, almost a softer version of Dio, it all goes to create a thoroughly thrilling and exhilarating musical ride.  

7 are a combination of everything you have always loved about rock music, the narrative and storytelling of prog rock is right up there with the extremely well played performances by each and every artist in the band. The music that lies within this album is a true treasure trove of musical magic, one that I would recommend to everyone , even if you’re not naturally a rock fan, this album,Time Will Tell, will blow you away with its sheer style and panache if nothing else. 

"If this had been released back then, it could have competed with bands like Yes or Asia" 

By: Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck   

When I started listening to 7 and their album Time Will Tell, my immediate thought was, this sounds like the early 80s Yes and Asia. That hit the nail on the head as the band was formed back then with all the songs written in that time frame. In that timeframe, I was in Japan and was asked if I wanted to go to Tokyo to see Asia. I declined my friend's offer. Looking back now I wish I went.  

Music like this is retro and brings all the memories flooding back. If this had been released back then it could have competed with bands like Yes or Asia. Better late than never and as far as I am concerned because it is a joy to listen to.  

Four of the nine songs are over 5 minutes in length which is and was typical of the genre. These are classic sweeping tracks with fantastic vocals supported by strong guitar, rhythm section, and the all-important keyboards, for the finishing touch. I think even without the keyboards I would still tag it as prog rock.  

There are simply no weak links in this recording however if I was pressed, my favorites would be “Time Will Tell,” “Chance of a Lifetime,” “The Knight” and “Go the Distance.” Every one of those tracks has good lyrics and a fantastic song structure with top musicianship. I like passages like “You can go the distance if you don’t let your heart go blind.” The wordplay is very clever and meaningful.  

Starting the album with an ear-catching title track is a very good idea and, in this case, it gets your attention. And just as important is to close out the album strong and they do it with excellence on “The Knight.” The soaring vocals provided by Randy Copus, pulsating bass, in time drums and driving keyboards, make this a very catchy tune that you want to hear again once it is over.  

It may sound outdated for 2019 because it was meant for the 80s however it remains a fact that this music is complex yet always radio-ready. That special connection to prog rock from legendary performers like Yes, ELP and Asia give this a real chance for a wide listening base. Many people still listen to this music regularly, making a viable release. I would love to hear this on vinyl LP, it would be amazing.  

I have provided the “vintage” version of the “Time Will Tell” video along with the stream from Spotify for interested listeners. If you like any of the aforementioned bands you will love this music!  

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck  

November 24, 2019