Steve Hughes - Once We Were - Part One & Part Two (2016)

Once We Were - Part One (2016) is an ambitious solo concept release by British multi-instrumentalist Steve Hughes, known for his work with British prog flagships Big Big Train and The Enid. The album represents the first part of a large-scale diptych dedicated to reflection on the history of mankind, the socio-political transformation of society, the loss of past ideals and technological isolation. Enlisting a galaxy of guest vocalists and soloists, Hughes creates a monumental symphonic-prog symphony that seamlessly blends classic 1970s prog traditions with contemporary cinematic sweep.

Once We Were - Part Two (2016) is the final installment of British musician Steve Hughes' monumental solo diptych. Released as a direct sequel to Part One, the album concludes a sprawling conceptual dilogy about the fate of humanity, technological alienation, and the search for spiritual and ethical rebirth. Part Two is noticeably darker, more dynamic, and compositionally focused, with Hughes's symphonic prog aesthetic occasionally taking on a heavy, dramatic, and almost prog-metal tone, building to an emotional and grandiose climax.