SIRENS AND SILENCES / WORK RESUMED ON THE TOWER

Nice to see the inclusion of this wonderful chapter in the Henry Cow saga.... Naturally, what we have here is the logical continuation from what was once Art Bears (3 superb albums) - similarities to the Bears you will find, but more differences. Multi- instrumentalist virtuoso Fred Frith has left the fold so it seems a name change was in order. Still on board are Chris Cutler, Dagmar Krause, Lindsay Cooper and a new member, the wonderful Zeena Parkins playing Harp (the stringed kind!) along with guests Phil Minton and Georgie Born. The addition of the Harp makes for some exciting listening, especially when applied to the RIO formula. Odd sounds, time sigs, even some ambience, and Dagmar's unique voice are all present, highlights being Klein's Bottle and Arcades (of Glass) with some truly awesome Harp playing and angular rhythms. I've always found Phil Minton's voice a little over-bearing, but it's minimal - just another facet of their sound. Not your usual prog-rock ; hard to recommend it to sympho-maniacs, neo's and harder edged proggers (personally, I am all of these, so it may appeal), but those who go for something really special, well, it should work for you. 5 stars, as there's nothing I've heard that sounds like it, and, it's from 1984. The 80's wasn't such a bad time for adventurous music after-all.