A little over a year ago now, in the heart of the pandemic when life couldn’t have been more bleak, Dennis DeYoung gave us a beacon of hope in 26 East, Vol. 1. His first studio album in over a decade, it was a reminder of what made that little band he formed, Styx, so beloved in the hearts of many. Speaking of Styx, I’m well aware that their new album, Crash of the Crown, is “coincidentally” coming out a week from now. I might even review it. But today’s review isn’t about Styx. It’s about their onetime mastermind, Dennis DeYoung, and his latest album, 26 East, Vol. 2.
For those who have been following DeYoung over the past few years, this album is no surprise. Upon signing with Frontiers Records, he announced he had enough material for two albums and would release it as such. This was a smart move. Though I certainly don’t underestimate DeYoung’s ability as a songwriter or performer, double albums tend to be overwhelming for even the best of bands. It’s why despite having a fair share of tracks that stood up to their 70s heyday, Angel’s 2019 comeback album, Risen, dragged along.
One unfair assumption Vol. 2 might get is that it consists merely of “leftovers” from Vol. 1. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Every song on here showcases a different side of DeYoung. The Styx-isms are prominent (as to be expected), but DeYoung makes it clear from the opening track, “Hello Goodbye”, that there’d be no Styx without The Beatles. Not to be confused with the Fabs’ song of the same name, “Hello Goodbye” is a stunning musical and lyrical tribute to John, Paul, George, and Ringo.
“Land of the Living” takes us back to the Crystal Ball era. Though melody was always the bedrock of the Styx sound, I feel the release of Crystal Ball and the addition of Tommy Shaw was when the band finetuned their signature brand of pop, hard rock, and prog. I can’t help but hear shades of “Put Me On” and “Mademoiselle” on “Land of the Living” and I wouldn’t have it any other way. “The Last Guitar Hero” is an observation of the everchanging music industry, or more specifically the “dying” art of rock n’ roll. While I don’t agree at all with this “rock is dead” position, it makes for a great song premise and is more than Gene Simmons could say.
“Your Saving Grace” is the first of a few ballads on this album. Overall, Vol. 2 leans more on the ballad side than its predecessor, but that’s fine. Because for every gentle moment throughout, there’s a blast of Styx flavored nostalgia. “There’s No Turning Back Time” begins as a passionate acoustic ballad which lyrically continues the album(s) themes of of self reflection, before transforming into an old school prog monster with a majestic synth solo. “Little Did We Know” is a throwback to Styx at their most dramatic circa Paradise Theatre. Of course, this review would not be complete without a mention of “The Isle of Misanthrope”. This dark, heavy prog epic is the crown jewel of the album, and arguably DeYoung’s career. If the mission was to out-Styx Styx, mission accomplished.
I must admit that I couldn’t help but shed a tear as the ominously titled closer, “GIF”, revealed itself to be a note for note rendition of “The Grand Finale”. It took me back to the very first time I heard The Grand Illusion, all those years ago. As much as I’m going to miss Dennis DeYoung the recording artist, I applaud him for knowing when to say when. He’s said everything he’s needed to say and then some. And if Tommy Shaw and James Young can’t hear what’s being said at this point, I don’t think they ever will. I’m beyond sadness, anger, frustration, and profanity. So is DeYoung. That’s why he released these albums as a parting gift to us: the fans. It was us who bought the albums and requested the songs on the radio and filled the seats when Styx came to town. It was us who made all these guys multi-millionaires. But actions speak louder than words, and the words and music within 26 East, Vol. 2 say it all. Thank YOU Dennis for all of the amazing songs…yes, even “Mr. Roboto”, which doesn’t deserve the bad rap it gets.
10 out of 10
Label: Frontiers Records
Genre: AOR
For fans of: Styx, Kansas, Magnum
It is a fitting finish to Dennis’s glorious 5-decade career. So many musical references to the classic sound of Styx. Emotionally moving in places. Especially in “Your Saving Grace”, “There’s No Turing Back Time”, and the call back to Grand Illusion with “Grand Finale”
The musical and lyrical references to The Beatles in “Hello Goodbye” are genius.
Isle of Misanthrope is a true masterpiece a la Suite Madam Blue.
If this is the end of the road for Dennis’s recording career, it is a classy and classic finale.
Great review. I too shed a tear.
I love ballads just as much as the rockers. Always Time is my current favorite. His vocals are the best I’ve ever heard. Get this in your favorite type of media.