THE WAKE

In just less than two year's time, IQ will come back with a very sophisticated album. Of course, the recipe will be almost the same; but since it was very tasteful, there are no fundemental problem with this aspect of their work.

Most numbers flow nicely the one into each other and "Outer Limits" sets the pace. Imposing keys, tortured vocals (the filiation with Gabriel won't disappear of course). I mentioned already that IMO Peter Nicholls sounds even more as Gabriel than Fish for instance. His solemn tone being less "spectacular" than Fish's one, but as powerful. Just another form of acting I would say.

The title track although short, is expressive and particularly well balanced. Imposing keys (as usual, should I say). This is really a neo-prog anthem. Heavy bass and solid drums. The necessary instrumental guitar touch and a very catchy melody. To summarize : a good song.

Of course with "The Magic Roundabout", we seem to be transported into "Watcher". It is amazing to notice how many times this fabulous Genesis number has been partially used. It is evident for about two minutes: full of mellotron and then the supreme eight notes riff. Incomparable (I'm talking about the original one). Fortunately, this song will bring some more feelings than just past history. Orford is again brilliant on the keys.

The reggae-ish "Corners" might sound funny, but it bores me to death. Press skip. The poorest IQ number so far.

Fortunately, as if IQ needs to be forgiven they will provide us with the best number of this album. "Widow's Peak" is definitively the peak here. Mike produces great guitar work and the whole band is absolutely bombastic. This is a wonderful IQ track. One of those for which I have the most profund respect. A gorgeous and spacey instrumental part precedes a section introduced by a similar riff as in "Run Like Hell" (another often used theme amongst neo-prog bands). Peter sounds very emotional and adds this little extra which makes the difference between a good and a great track. Wonderful closing.

In comparison "The Thousand Days" is a simple yet attractive number. Not complex at all. Just a simple, but good song. I guess that from time to time, bands can produce this type of songs without being regarded as being too simplistic.

The closing number "Headlong" sounds sad. A very weird atmosphere prevails. We'll get the famous riff here and there (you know "Watcher"...). It is full of harmony. A great closing number. Such numbers can only fill your heart with the utmost pleasure. This is what prog is about : generate emotions. And IQ knows how to do it, believe me.

The remastered CD version features three bonus tracks. I am totally in love with the French titled "Dans le Parc du Chateau Noir". It is simply my preferred song of the whole. The guitar is incredible, so passionate (thanks again Mike). We'll even get some reminiscence of "Watcher". Would you believe ? Brilliant. How this number was not considered for the album inclusion will remind a mystery. Thanks for having remembered that it ever existed, friends. The other bonus tracks are alternate (and shorter) versions of numbers featured on the album. I have never been found of "edits". So, my judgment will not change with this one.

If I hadn't stop listening to prog music for so long (1978 - 1996), I guess I would have been REALLY in love with such an album at the time of its release. Since I have discovered all these works since then, there is no harm, only a dealy. I am very happy to share my enthusiasm about this album and more generally about this band.

Great music. Great rating. Four stars.

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