TALES OF MYSTERY AND IMAGINATION

After learning that Alan Parsons had engineered Dark Side of the Moon, I was curious to hear what his little "Project" sounded like. I must say that I was very impressed, even upon my first listen. This debut reminded me of some Pink Floyd's atmospheric sounds and effects (an obvious connection) but also had its own merits, including Orson Welles' excellent narration on "A Dream Within A Dream" and "TFOTHOU - Part I (Prelude)," which is at least on par with (if not better than) the Moody Blues' own narrated tracks. I also love the effects used for "The Raven" and Arthur Brown's psychotic vocals for "The Tell-Tale Heart" are perfect. Additionally, "The Cask of Amontillado" is a beautiful track, and the epic "TFOTHOU" is both calming and creepy. Really, the only tracks on this album that I don't consider exceptional are Parts III. and V. of "TFOTHOU" (as standalone songs), and (depending on my mood) To One In Paradise can get a little boring. Besides those minor complaints, "Tales of Mystery and Imagination" is a true classic that every fan of 70s Prog Rock should own. Unfortunately, it was the one and only masterpiece made by Parsons' Band, but it was certainly a worthwhile project all the same!