COVER ME WITH RAIN

ARK sounds like OZZY doing AOR songs on rehearsal. The ugliset here is "Celebrate", very stupid and derivative. This is not Neo-prog, not even related - this is simply a number of pop-rock songs without any signs of talent or taste. "OK, if this is pop-rock there must be catchy tunes?" No, buddy, read above - "no talent and taste". The singer sometimes tries to sound a-la Gabriel, and it creates strange impression of Gabriel stuck inside Ozzy...or Ozzy stuck inside Gabriel...anyway, I wished it would end soon - and halleluyah, that was only a EP! Recommended for those who wants kill themself with pseudo-Neo-prog. Not recommended for others, even collectors.

In 1989 Dave Robbins was replaced by new drummer Richard Deane and the ''New scientist'' EP was recorded, followed by several lives, including support to IQ and visits to Paris and Tilburg.However in October 90's John Jowitt left to become a renowned member with IQ and Jadis.His replacement was Gel Newey, who had been a member of small Metal acts and brought along his ex-bandmate Paul Rodgers four months later, when Deane also quit.In 1991 Ark enter the Rich Bitch Studioplex in Birmingham to record their first private CD.Entitled ''Cover me with rain'', this was eventually released in August 92'.

The band was apparently drowned by the New Wave fashion of the time, while the addition of two Metal-influenced musicians had also an impact to Ark's sound, which somewhat lost the ultra-melodic approach in the sake of more pounding rhythms.Two tracks, ''Train'' and the self-titled one, were offered in both radio and extended editions, indicating that the steam of ideas has possibly run out.At this point they do sound like PALLAS and TWELFTH NIGHT during their weakest efforts.The tracks are short, powerful and groovy with plenty of energy and highlighted by marching drumming and guitar work, that twists from edgy riffing to more melodic deliveries.However the songs are very predictable without any fresh ideas and lacking any serious content.Ark's highest point was always the tendency towards good melodies and this albums contains enough material to satisfy a Neo Prog fan.But no more than that.No sound development, no intricate instrumentals and moreover lots of poppy leanings and even some very cheesy choruses and thin keyboards.Still Short remains in the list of the very good singers of the movement.

Uninspired and flat poppy Neo Prog.Closer often to AOR than Prog, this will find some appeal only among the dedicated fans of British Neo Prog...2.5 stars.