NIGHTHAWKS (OST)

This is one of the most underrated record in the prog scene! We are in the presence of a very good RIO soundtrack movie punctuated with some accessible and catchy songs. Emerson uses a symphonic approach mixed with interesting RIO elements, a bit like Frank Zappa did with his "Orchestral favorites" album: the tracks are really progressive. The presence of a very participating orchestra contributes to give a pompous character to this record. There are many rather scary experimental parts, often flirting with the RIO subgenre; they know how to build up a palpable tension well suited for disturbing movies. What is impressive is the real structure involved regarding the RIO arrangements, despite a certain dissonance: nothing is randomly made. Emerson can also be very rhythmic, and often the style almost flirts with a disco appoach mainly due to the straightforward drums, the warm percussions and the nervous orchestra, a bit like Rick Wakeman used to do with his records around of the early 80's. This record tends to demonstrate that RIO and Emerson fit VERY well together! I give nearly a 5 stars rating for all the RIO parts! Amateurs of symphonic RIO, you should not be disappointed at all!

Rating: 4.5 stars