ZON – Back Down To Earth (CD, Rock Candy) [Collectors Edition, Remastered]

Canadian rockers ZON burst onto the scene with their sensational debut album, “Astral Projector,” a record boasting the finest combination of pomp-rock and progressive AOR. Considered a pinnacle of the genre by many, the band’s follow-up, 1979’s “Back Down To Earth,” was eagerly anticipated by most of their fans… and they were not disappointed. Zon’s carefully executed balance between pomp and prog resulted in another full-throttle burst of melodic rock, featuring sophisticated vocal harmonies and striking arrangements, particularly in the keyboard department. Their deft blend of smooth hard rock and memorable melodies was immediately compared to Styx, Aviary, and Trillion. Produced by Don Lorusso (who also produced the previous album) and assisted by co-producer Dale Jacobs, the album was well-received by fans, who warmed to the band’s pompous arrangements, solid songwriting, and relentless pursuit of perfection. While the commercial success wasn’t spectacular, the band’s intentions became crystal clear, elevating the album and the group to a new level of achievement. Released on Epic Records, the sophisticated five-piece received enthusiastic acclaim for the album, which impressed on multiple levels: with the title track, the blockbuster heavy of ‘Circus,’ the blisteringly progressive rock of ‘As Seasons Change,’ and ‘Gods and Kings’ – another complex prog hard-pomp masterpiece. Special Collector’s Deluxe Edition / Remastered in 24-bit digital technology / Five live bonus tracks / 16-page full-color booklet with essay and new interviews, updated artwork.