CIRCUS

In terms of prog, this album is a good follower of "Nexus". Of course, Rod is now fully on the command and even if the title track starts on the jazzy rhythm, it is a fine composition which should please any "Argent" fan.

It is needless to say that the keys parts are even more important as in prior releases. The whole bunch of possibilities (including some fine mellotron lines) is present: synth, piano and mellotron as I have already outline of course. This is an extremely good combination for the longest track available on this album to be honest.

The overall feeling when one listens to this album, is that it is more constructed than previous releases. In terms of music, it also meant that those heavy rock sounds were almost forgotten. Still, compositions are catchy, well crafted and superbly interpreted. "Highwire" is a definite highlight.

The quiet side of their music can be experienced as well. It doesn't belong to the most grandiose pieces of music they have ever written and a track as "Clown" is not one of their greatest track but, thanks to a very good instrumental part which raises the level, it is combined with above average vocal which are heading in the direction of the great "10CC".

This album is also the occasion for Rod to get in touch with some jazzier atmospheres. Not really my cup of tea during the long "Trapeze". The middle heavy part and the bombastic finale are saving it though. Not to bad a number at the end of the day (it is 1 AM right now.).

There is even a Beatles-esque melody ("Shine On Sunshine"), full of melancholy. It is of course not really what one was expecting from "Argent" but I have to say that it doesn't sound weak either. On the contrary, it only adds to the diversity of this album, which is pretty much decent so far.

It is true that I am missing these great organ and powerful solo which are alien here. One has to be satisfied with this new orientation which is quite interesting IMHHO.

Three stars.

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