Interesting Side Project, Takes Patience to Appreciate Fully
Todd and In Charge | Miami, FL | 09/22/2005
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Unlike some of these reviews, I found the music more complex and challenging than if you just turned on your PC and started noodling. Besides, Downes was working with older technology that required a bit more labor than what is available today.
That said, it's still a slight, but enjoyable diversion. Most of the song structures are textures, a bit underwritten, but give insight to the creative process that Downes brought to other colloborations in other contexts. For that reason, if you are a fan, you will enjoy. Otherwise, you're probably better off picking up the first Asia album, or either Buggles album, before starting with this."
A Recommended Piece Of Work.
Todd and In Charge | 09/06/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Geoff Downes is my favorite keyboardist. I enjoy all of what he's done with Asia, Yes, The Buggles, and solo-wise. He's always been very good, and this album proves that. He really gives you a lot to listen to and immerse yourself in. "Oceania" and "East West" are my favorites. This is a very good instrumental album and is recommended."
A stunning sonic landscape
Todd and In Charge | 08/15/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Most "new age" instro music leaves me cold, but not THIS album. Recorded essentially as a solo project in 1986, "THE LIGHT PROGRAM" (the actual name of the album, despite how it's listed online) is probably closest in style to several of Rick Wakeman's electronic instro albums (like 2000 A.D. INTO THE FUTURE). Each of the 5 tracks in like a small symphony from some future time. "Symphonie Electronique", which opens the disc, has been one of my fave recordings since I first heard it back in the 80's.Downes has done 2 additional "New Dance Orchestra" albums since this (in addition to 2 drastically different line-ups of his band ASIA) but this remains tops in my book."
Track Listings (5) - Disc #1