The Secret

I listened to the sample tracks, but was not enough sampling to get a good picture of what the album was going to be. I took a leap of faith, bought this new album and already regret the purchase. Nothing new here, nothing of noteworthy reporting. Alan’s early work is by far his best in my humble opinion. This is a jumbled mess of stuff he’s already done and none of these news songs stand out.

This was a surprise to come across. I didn't know this was coming. After a listen I thought "very impressive". A lot of classic stying from earlier works with a fresh feel, yet. Favorite track on the first run was "As Lights Fall" which sounds at first like a slightly up-tempo version of "Eye in the Sky" but develops it's own identity and is a toe-tapper. "One note Symphony" is very unique with it's single note used as the main melody with harmonies giving the depth of feel. Clever. "I Can't Get There from Here" is also a strong one to enjoy. This has the feel of a "goodbye" album. If it is, it's a worthy one. Thanks, Alan for doing one more.

Been waiting so long for more of one of the Greasest Musical Minds ever!! The whole album is GREAT! One Note Symphony is my personal favorite and When Lights Fall, was superb, but kind of sad, like Alan was saying goodbye and thank you to his fans. Thank You Mr. Parsons!!!

Mr. Parsons and his team have done it again with their newest album “The Secret.” Every song has been crafted to perfection and all of them sound terrific! This is a true masterpiece in every regard! 10/10

Alan had to know and feel the pressure. With no new material in a decade and a stellar body of existing work, he needed to work magic. And indeed, he did make magic. This album is a sonic delight. Great song selections too. Does it come to par with Tales and Pyramid? You have to decide... But I think so. And this album does not sound “digital”. It’s warm with a good dynamic spread. Flawlessly engineered and performed. Thank you Mr Parsons.

As an APP fan from the late 1970’s, I take no pleasure in what I’m about to say. I’ve listened to the new album front to back twice now and I can’t really warm up to very much of it. I would have preferred something more edgy and progressive. This is mostly elevator music for old folks. Disappointed and left wanting much more from him. 😕

I’ve been exposed to Parsons’ work since I was a young child and have always enjoyed his albums; Try Anything Once and Tales of Mystery and Imagination being amongst my favorites. I had to listen to this album a few times to really understand it. I have to say, now that it clicked, this is truly some of his best work.

Alan's most orchestral project. Reminds me of "Tales Of Mystery & Imagination". listen to them back-to-back & I defy you to tell me wrong! Possible bookends? Oh & for the person who claimed it isn't hard rock, that is NOT Alan's fault! He, nor any of us, have control over that. I, personally this it's one of his best works

I must admit, I was worried. I had hoped and hoped for another masterpiece of years past, and although I have only listened once, I really feel that this one will find its way into my normal APP rotation as if it were there all along. Todd Cooper and PJ Olsen are outstanding additions from the Live Project, both making their performances holding to the highest traditions of the past Project. I don’t know if this is Alan’s way of saying “that’s all folks” but if it is, he has shown that he still has the magic.

After a long dry spell, it's indeed great that Mr. Parsons is back and able to once again mesmerize us with this masterful work. My favorite is "...Lights...". I think I've listened to it a few dozen times and been able to reflect on my own life with the lyrics as a background. While at first concerned that this album could be a "curtain call", I thought about the other lyrics as well, "Though the burden is great, every now and then, I would still go back and carry that load". Personally, that line encourages me - that while a "senior" in body, my will has yet to be quenched and that I still have something to contribute to society. I also believe that specific line may let us know that Mr. Parsons isn't quite finished, either. He'll still be around - and his work, even longer. Just my thoughts - thanks again Mr. Parsons for your fantastic body of work over these decades.