1992's
Aurinko was a tragedy for hardcore fans because of its change to a multinational recording company. CMX didn't depress its old fans; vice versa, they recorded a great album without losing their faces. But on
Aura something goes wrong. From beginning it is sure that
Aura is a pop album. Even heavier (thought not traditional) songs like "Raskas" and "Sametinpehmeä" are far from hit songs of
Aurinko. Instead, CMX introduces perfect prime-time radio songs like "Ruoste" and "Kultanaamio." Well, if hardcore fans are forgotten, then
Aura pleases people who are into progressive music.
Aura is after all something that has never been heard before. There are some elements from its first recordings, and some elements borrowed from popular music as well. This mix-up comes nicely awake in songs like "Nainen Tanssii Tangoa" and "Elokuun Kruunu." Therefore old fans who are even a little bit into progression can find this album listenable. Despite that,
Aura is the album that brought CMX to mainstream forever. ~ Antti J. Ravelin