RELAYER

Yes were certainly pining for a new sound when they came out with 'Relayer'. One should notice that, while still holding its jazzy rhythm section, were generally symphonic. This is obviously an attempt at more of a fusion album. What an attempt!

1. Gates of Delerium: 9/10 - Everything about this song is wonderful. The vocals soar into points surmounted only by the album, 'Close to The Edge'. There is a definite point in the middle where the percussion sounds like a battlefield. From this, it leads into the dark blue majesty of 'Soon'. Jon really shines through riding the jetstream along with Steve's super suspeneded guitar. My only concern is a more triumphant beginning.

2. Sound Chaser: 10/10 - I was breathless after the song. After Bruford, I always thought that Alan paled in comparison. How wrong I was. Never have I seen such an evidently beautiful interplay between percussion and keyboards. A quick little show by the always incomparable Chris, the theme sets in. Then a series of superb licks from Steve, the theme again, and I have just five words, "CHA CHA CHAAAA CHA CHA!"

3. To Be Over: 10/10 - Time to relax. This was quite a change from the off-the-handle jazz fusion of the prior two songs. Superior guitar work, excellent escapism factor, and my hats off to Jon on his Opioions. If there was a good connotation for the word soporific, this song defines it.