NOT OF THIS WORLD

Not counting a numerous of live albums, compilations and best of albums, this is the first sign of life from PENDRAGON in five years. The last time was 1996 and "The Masquerade Overture" (April 1996) and "As Good As Gold" (mini album CD, October 1996). It has definitely been worth the wait. PENDRAGON is better than ever musically, especially the keyboard wizard Clive Nolan. He has a very tasteful approach: He can be both bombastic in his playing, but also quiet and mellow when it is required. They still have their unmistakable warm melodic neo-progressive sound and Nick Barrett's compositions and lyrics are as good as always. Nick's lyrics often seem to be very emotional and personal, especially on this new album. It nice to see that the album contains only five, very long tracks. I have always loved long songs as long as it doesn't affect the overall quality of the composition. If I should raise any complaints it would be that PENDRAGON seldom surprise their audience. But on the other hand this is also their strength. Their fans always know what they'll get, and this album fulfils every fans wish, although it doesn't match "The Masquerade Overture", their finest release to date. The highlights on this album are "Not Of This World" and "A Man Of Nomadic Traits". Two songs that have everything you could with for. As bonus tracks there are two acoustic versions of "The King Of The Castle" and "Paintbox". Both of them can also be found on the Polish compilation "The History: 1984-2000" released on Metal Mind Records last year. The inclusion here makes it less necessary to buy that compilation if you already have all the other albums. Simon Williams's cover artwork is magnificent with lots of details and the 16-page CD-booklet contains all the lyrics, paintings and photos. I should also mention the amazing production and mixing by Karl Groom (with assistant from PENDRAGON). PENDRAGON is one of the better neo-progressive bands today and this album will probably be in the top rankings when it's time to vote for this years best releases.