ASSAULT ON MERRYLAND

For many years this album was on my wish list but I was unable to track it down and now thanks to a great new technology we can all finally enjoy this masterpiece from the 70's , completely restored to CD from the kiln and a process of re-baking the oxide to the original mastertape. "Assault On Merryland" is a concept album based around a fantasy land called Merryland and a tale of a prince, princess and king who manage to reverse a spell which left Merryland in total darkness. Musically this is a 4 piece ensemble comprised of Rick Bess (guitars, bass), Blair Blake (Organ, piano, moog, Taurus pedals, celeste), Dave Kelly (drums), Mark Biehl (Vocals, Flute, trumpet). Musically these guys are tight and play with great lustre and technical skill. Songs area all very well written and offer great themes and varied tempos and moods. Overall this album is quite symphonic and perhaps best way to describe the music of SURPRISE would be a mix of FIREBALLET, KING CRIMSON and classic CAMEL. Overall a wonderful album and a definite need for your collection.