OVER

Peter Hammill's 6th release as a solo artist. 'Over' was composed after his marriage break-down to his first wife, Alice, and all the anguish and misery that goes with such a thing. Here, Hammill gives us an album of 'songs', as opposed to highly experimental instrumental displays, and as usual, fellow VDGG band-mates Guy Evans (Drums) and Nic Potter (Bass Guitar) help him out on some tracks. Also, future VDG violinist Graham Smith makes his appearance for the first time with the genius. PH is an intelligent, profound man, and this is an incredibly profound album, whether he sings of life experiences, or contemplating future situations. There are moments of delicate poignancy, reflection, disappointment and, after all is said and done, even hints at some optimism. The range of PH's larynx is amazing, and his expression is limitless. Depending on his lyric, he can spit out scorn and bitterness, or allow his voice to gently flutter in a fragile manner, but, he will always draw the listener in to actually feel what/how he feels , to enlighten people on the boundless emotions human nature can emit when faced with certain situations. Musically, the songs come in various forms, from acoustically oriented pieces, albeit, somewhat disturbing ('Alice', 'Betrayed', 'Yoga') , to more involved, 'Progressive' ones ('Time Heals', 'Lost and Found') - we even get a grand-scale Orchestral arrangement with the love-song 'This Side of the Looking Glass'. 'Crying Wolf' is one of Hammill's 'Rockier' moments, and 'Autumn' is a plaintive ballad with weepy violins. Whilst I wouldn't consider 'Over' to be a masterpiece, it is a fantastic, highly recommended album.