CARPET OF THE SUN

I did not know that the classic track from Ashes Are Burning was released as a single, but it makes sense: the song has a fine melody, it is short for Renaissance standards and the orchestral arrangement is discretely beautiful. In other words, simply perfect to introduce this band on radio at the time. I really don´t know how good this song performed at the charts, but it deserved to be a hit. The b side was another gem: Bound For Infinity was a plaintive track from the earlier Prologue Album, that a structure similar to A Face of Yesterday (from their second album, 1971´s Illusion). It is a beautiful, underrated tune, that I have always loved.

Both tracks are a great showcase for Annie Haslam unique, operatic vocals and the more subtle side of Renaissance instrumental prowess. Simple does not mean simplistic and they were a great example that fine melodies were not enemies of great prog music. Sometimes less is more. A classic!

Rating: 4 strong stars.