THE SPIRITUAL WORLD

Entering the 00's and with Nick Barrett having recovered from a hard divorce, Peter Gee found no additional time for personal recordings, between 2001 and 2008 Pendragon released no less than three studio albums, while their bassist was also involved in several projects, like Oliver Wakeman & Clive Nolan's ''The hound of the Baskervilles'' and ex-Glass Hammer Michelle Young's ''Marked for madness''.But after a decade of silence Gee returned in 2008 with his third work ''The spiritual world'' (an independent release this time), where he plays bass, guitar and keyboards, Stephen Christey is again the drummer, while the vocal parts are handled by Steve Thorne, except for one track, sung by Simon Clew.

Structurewise not much has changed since his previous album from 1997, there are seventeen short- to mid-length tracks in the album without much of a progressive technique and virtuosity, but lots of atmospheric and emotional soundscapes.Soundwise though this appears to be Gee's most cohesive album thus far, a collection of more emotional and more classic-styled Neo Prog pieces and ballads, this time heavily influenced by the softer side of his main band, the atmospheric colors of PINK FLOYD, but also the lyrical depth and musical integrity of Fish-era MARILLION, definitely one unique of an entry in Gee's solo music.And while listeners of his previous efforts are already familiar with his melancholic and warm arrangements with the instant melodies and light symphonic vibes, the new album offers a few pieces rooted in the Classic Neo Prog style with a tad more symphonic keyboards, strong GENESIS influences in the vocal moments of Steve Thorne and some pounding drumming and bass, just listen to tracks like ''Return to life'' or ''Sunset boulevard''.Additionally Gee decided to throw in some unexpected passages with a pure instrumental symphonicism, which sound even more enganging, when considering he was now also responsible for the keyboard work.His PENDRAGON-like pieces are certainly very good, it's a style he served for several years and the result is absolutely great, warm, delicate and melodious Neo Prog.

Gee moves a step closer to classic Neo Prog with this release.More symphonic, more ethereal and more balanced music throughout, featuring excellent Phil Collins-like vocals and influences spanning from mid-70's Genesis and Pink Floyd to Marillion, Abel Ganz and Pendragon.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.