IN THE HOT SEAT

If there was a zero star rating , I would gladly utilize that. There is a time when bands should have the sense to hang it up. Why ELP persisted with this mess is beyond me. It's regrettable that this was ELP's last studio statement. Save for 'Hand of Truth'(which hints at the old vigor and power of this band) and 'Daddy'(Lake's last good acoustic song, although dreary and depressing to reward future listens), this is a total mess. All the other songs are devoid of personality and if one were to listen to this garbage without knowing the band's name on the cover, they would be amazed that this was ELP. Greg Lake's voice was shot at this point and if you are into hoarse, croaky vocals, then this album may hold little appeal. Much of the material is junk cobbled together in search of a hit single and ELP were never about that. There is really nothing to seek out here except for the two aforementioned tracks. While they are no great shakes, they are at least tolerable, There are some monumental duds such as 'Thin Line''( a pathetic attempt at soul complete with backup singers assisting Lake. In his prime, a fantastic singer like him would never have the need for backup singers), 'Heart on ice' ( a horrendous ballad that is mawkish with terribly cliched lyrics) and 'Give me a reason to stay'(which gives no sensible listening person a reason to stay and not to hit the skip button on whatever device you are listening to this song on). There are other tracks that I could point out the awfulness but why extend the pain? Lest we forget, we get an updated, truncated version of 'Pictures at an Exhibition.' All that does is make me seek out the superb live album recorded at Newcastle City Hall back in '71. I understand Emerson's hand was in terrible shape, but it's no excuse for lackluster material. And Palmer emulates a drum machine . Best avoided . Put yellow construction tape around it as it is hazardous to one's hearing .