MIRAGE

A near, if not complete masterpiece of symphonic rock. Strong heavy rhythmic rock structures, with very good guitar, bass, and keyboard soloing throughout the album. Camel create a very full sound, with very melodic atmospheric keyboards and guitars, and a complex rhythm section underneath.

I don't really like the vocals on most Camel albums and this album is no exception, luckily most of the songs are instrumental, and those instrumentals is what makes Camel a unique band. The few times there are vocals they do not distract from the music, so no problems there. Highlights on this album are the songs Nimrodel, and Lady Fantasy, with great guitarplay and well structured melodic songs, Freefall is a more heavy rock song, with a strong rhythm section and fabulous guitars. Supertwister is an instrumental with a good flute solo, and Earthrise (and Lady Fantasy also) reminds me already of the Snow Goose album in atmosphere and unique sounds.

On later albums the music will get more melodic at the expense of their heavy rock roots, but on this album they reach a perfect blend between heavy rock, and symphonic melodic prog. Almost a masterpiece according to me, and a huge recommendation to all who like melodic symphonic prog with some rocking edges. Great album, and regard my 4 star rating as very conservative...