NATURAL SELECTION

Land's End looked like one of those bands that might really appeal to my tastes, being a blend of Symphonic/Psychedelic Prog. However, since I purchased this album in the late 90's I was left feeling unimpressed by the band. I have given it a number of chances since then but my verdict remains unchanged. What we have here is five tracks (and a short instrumental opener) including one at thirty minutes in length, always a good omen for a Prog fan. The music is fairly mellow and slow paced generally speaking, with a hint of Pink Floyd at times, some nice keyboard sounds and more than competent Guitar playing.

So what exactly is the problem? Well, I find the music is not particularly well structured and the compositions are on the weak side, lacking strong melodies and memorable hooks. I have a bit of a problem with the Drumming too which is fairly weak, the Drummers timing being fairly poor much of the album and after many of the fills he appears to struggle to get back into the groove on time. I don't like to be totally negative about an album though and there are one or two moments where they nail it, particularly towards the end of the album on My Home and thirty minute title track Natural Selection which has a long instrumental section which reminds me a little of Camel in places.

So overall, not a total disaster but with so much good Progressive Rock out there competing for your attention I would only recommend this album for fans and completionists.