THE SAGA

An hour of stimulating symph-prog, not overtly complex material but delivered with aplomb, gusto and genuine pleasure. I was expecting something in the Maryson vein as all musicians save the keyboard player are from that Dutch band. But this one sort of crept up on me unaware and proceeded to snatch my interest and then, my admiration. This is top- extended pop-prog tunes that some may call neo but done with such expertise, anyone can get into this. Guitarist Van Hoogdalen contributes his usual stellar musicianship , the bass and drums keep the package together with plenty of assorted little touches that keep everything always interesting, a little sitar here ,a lot of fiery sax there. Really charming stuff. The programme starts off a tad predictably but as each new song appears , the overall mood improves immeasurably. By the time you get to the extraordinarily hummable "Not Only Love", which sticks to melobraincells like crazy glue, the ride to the end is sheer pleasure. Lots of 7 minute mini-epics here that will please some , delight others and disappoint no progger. Lots of good sympho-prog from Holland lately (Nice Beaver, Odyssice, Mangrove, Novox, Flamborough Head, Like Wendy, Trion, Lady Lake and Knight Area), providing solid releases with consistently better than usual vocals , with something for everyone. Ice seems like a one shot deal but it has the mettle to stand the test of time. 4 frozen cubes