TAÏ PHONG

I discovered this band when the LP came out (75) and quite liked it at the time. There was of course not yet a word said about JJ Goldman who will later be one the most successfull French songwriter. Their influence is obviously Yes (but without being too close to be considered as a clone).

For this time being "Goin' Away" is a very nice opener : lots of keys and ferocious guitar. Next track "Sister Jane" was their only hit number (you like it or not but it is a very melodious and passionate moment of music - nice piece to dance with your beloved one...).

"Crest" is a good rocking number but the less interesting one so of the album. Side 1 finishes with "For Years & Years" which is very good : nice intro, then a very powerful instrumental middle section (savage guitar & keys) before returning to a more relaxed lyric part. Very pleasant.

B side is really good. Only two long numbers. "Fields of Gold" is spacey at times: it is a quiet song. A true & melodious prog track. Some might be irritated though by JJ vocals (like in other numbers). Closing track on the vinyl album was "Out of the Night" : this is my favorite of the band and one of their very few epics.

These 11'33" are a great moment. Good vocals, great keyboards, nice melody and a crescendo building which I really like. I guess that's all prog is about. The bonus tracks on the CD are not really worth (but that's the case for most bonus tracks, right ?).

A solid 4 stars for this work.