Source: Album Artwork
Trans-Siberian Orchestra are EXACTLY what they say on the tin. Think orchestral rock music, with hints of Meatloaf and Mamma Mia and that’s Trans-Siberian Orchestra down to a T. Formed in 1996, the band (can you call it that?) have now released eight studio albums and have sold more than ten million concert tickets and over ten million albums. They’re a pretty big deal. Latest album Letters From Labyrinth makes you wonder why.
For someone not familiar with the band, opener ‘Time & Distance’ is a shock to say the least. Launching straight in with a choir wailing “time and distance”, it’s a quick way to get a new listener to switch off. But sticking with it, and the instrumental parts are inspiring, albeit very theatrical. ‘Madness of Men’ and ‘Prometheus’ scream of West End shows, which is surprisingly quite enjoyable. The pianos bring about an upbeat feel, whilst the violins and drums add an air of suspense that is highlighted when the deep vocals make an appearance towards the end of the track.
As far as creativity goes, there really is nothing else like Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The instrumentals and brief moments of tranquillity prove why they went straight to playing theatre shows, rather than building their success through playing club venues (probably partially down to their being hundreds of them in the band). However, this record is certainly for an acquired taste: it’s melodramatic and the nods towards musicals and Meatloaf make it laughable. It’s a difficult record to listen to and it’s a struggle to stay interested. Maybe eight albums of their over-dramatic orchestra is enough.
