SCHEHERAZADE AND OTHER STORIES

Honestly, how could I ignore this band so far? I heard all the great 70s and I heed not to me what I was missing with Renaissance. Glad it was not too late! each album has been a more amazing experience than the other, and I think they peaked with what is considered his magnum opus, Scheherazade and Other Stories.

The classic, cool and epic sound that this group created is better than ever here. Everything flows well, everything works fine. Although people pay attention to the epic that dominates the B side (and not without reason), the other three songs on side A are magnificent in their own right. Trip to the Fair is a magnanimous song, opening with the extensive use of the piano that has become the trademark of the band, combined with intense vocals Goddess Annie Haslam. The three minutes are supported by this epic introduction before the song moves into a more jazzy and dreamy, but still great intimate territory. I remember that this was the first song I heard of the band and did not get to really like it. God, what a fool I am. The Vultures Fly High is more rocker, a direct short song and the type we've seen in other albums, and excellent. And Ocean Gypsy is one of the most beautiful songs of the band, a majestic performance of all members. Those that could bring you to tears.

But of course the credit goes to the epic 24-minute, Song of Scheherazade. Why? Simply because this is one of the best prog epics of history, a powerful song in every way. See the interaction between the band and the orchestra: it is basically the literal translation meaning symphonic prog. I could expound a whole text about that song, but would not be able to translate the emotions I feel for her. This song takes me to another world with its exuberance and magnificence, simply record the maximum of this band and one of the masterpieces of progressive rock in general.

So there it is: this album is not considered the best of them for nothing. If you could gave over 5 stars (maybe 1001? Haha). The perfect example of symphonic prog.

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