MOONMADNESS

What is it? : a great and mostly instrumental symphonic prog rock focused on melodies as well as interesting instrumental sections.

This is probably Camel's best release in the 70s. It uses all of their strengths and a lot of effort was seemed to be put in this work. While the synth-driven strangeness from the first 2 minutes will leave you in doubts, Song within a Song will take that away. The melodies from the verses, pre-choruses, and choruses are brilliant! The instrumentation is very restrained and is focused on creating the melodies while the distorted haunting vocals appear on the choruses. When you think the song ends, you are treated by a melodic instrumental section. This is what Camel is best at: melodies. Chord Change is an above average instrumental track that is better than most of the music from their previous album. Spirit of the Water continues the style of Song within a Song. Another Night is faster and heavier than the previous tracks, yet keeps the melody. Air Born is sadly not very interesting at all, but the powerful jam of Lunar Sea redeems it. The guitar playing in this track is nothing short of incredible!

I am surprised that Camel could really pull off an album that holds my interest and doesn't let go. I always though Camel was an average prog band that couldn't reach the brilliance of the prog masters. It still doesn't, but I can now look at the camel and be happy that they tried their best and managed to amaze me with their surprisingly good songwriting.

Highlights: Song Within a Song, Lunar Sea Let-Downs: Air Born

My Rating: B-