Canadian progressive rock band Mystery, formed in 1986, had remained relatively obscure for nearly a quarter-century until vocalist Benoît David's appointment as Jon Anderson's replacement in Yes thrust them briefly into the spotlight. After his unsatisfying tenure with the legendary prog act ended, David returned to his original band to record his second album with them.

With "One Among The Living", their fourth studio release, Mystery solidified their musical identity as a progressive rock ensemble drawing from established touchstones in the genre. The band consciously emulates the compositional and sonic sensibilities of Pink Floyd, Genesis, and Marillion, situating themselves within progressive rock's lineage. The album emerged as their most artistically accomplished work, representing the culmination of their evolving sound.