A NOD AND A WINK

Camel´s latest release is quite a varied album, very laid back and tranquil, with influences ranging from pure irish folk to symphonic rock. It´s not the kind of album that will grab you at first listen, that´s for certain. But A Nod And A Wink grows on you with each hearing, when you find more and more details and nuances every time. The influences of bands like Genesis and Pink Floyd are also more noticeable.

It may not be Camel´s best album, but it surely shows a versatile songwriter and guitarrist in top form. Andrew latimer´s voice is also quite fitting for this kind of music and he is backed by the usual very competent players like he always did. I liked the way keyboardist Guy LeBlanc uses the Hammond organ more often. Latimer solos are as emotional and beautiful as ever, and his flute playing is more proeminet here than on most Camel´s releases. Very intricated and subtle arrangements complete the picture. My fave tunes on this album are the title track, Fox Hill and the excellent l Squigley Fair (nice blend of folk and symphonic, with some awesome flute).

If you´re a Camel fan go for it! If you´re not, give it a chance. it may be the band´s swan song due to Latimer´s health problems, but it is a beautiful one! To be listen several times with great pleasure. Four stars.