OCTAVE

"Octave", Eighth, intentionally or not, this is the 8th album performed by MB's classical formation (also the last) - a history that began in 1967, with "Days of Future Passed". Six years after their last studio album ("Seventh Sojourn"), the band rejoined and produced this album that marked the farewell of the talented keyboardist Mike Pinder, probably the most prog-oriented member of the band.

Evaluating unheartedly one could give 1 or 2 stars claiming it is not a prog-album, but the year and the events of those vicious time make "Octave" a remarkable work. Amidst disco paranoia and punk apparent domination - both to last briefly, with many important artists and bands changing their style to a popish commercial trend, Moody Blues released a Moody Blues work although less progressive than previous albums. And it is fair and honest, not giving in to any momentaneous fashion or whatsoever.

The album is pleasant to hear, being the strongest songs: the opening track, 'Steppin' in the slide zone', with a very prog start, full of guitar and mellotron; 'Had to fall in love', a typical Moodie ballad, soothed by great singing and sweet harmonica; 'I'll be level with you', a pure rock; 'Driftwood', another soft song, well orchestrated; 'I'm your man', agreeable, listenable; 'Survival', a real prog one, resembling the good old classical days; 'One step into light', folky with rock and ballad touches.

Yes, it is still Moody Blues - less brilliant but without losing their identity, good, very good, although non-essential. Total: 3.