MIRAGE

This would probably be my 1# progressive rock album! I think no words can describe this masterpiece. "Mirage" is a work of four outstanding instrumentalists. A true piece of art and a classic prog album!

Camel did not achieve a great succes after their self-titled debut. It's hard to say that it influenced their sound because what they created on this album is something that just happens once, something that is not a shift from anything else. I don't know, maybe stars were alined in a particular way and that created some sort of increased creativity for these four young lads, I don't know really. What I know is that "Mirage" is a complete, unrepeatable collection of something more than songs. Epics... if you will! Nobody has ever created such a moody listening expirience!

"Freefall" is a great a album opener, perfectly placed. It features Peter Bardens' beautiful vocal colour. Andy Latimer's guitar playing is out of this world. Keys, guitar and a groovin' rhythm section all pair up, creating a fantastic piece about... Well, a state in life - Freefall! Band shows off their jazz abilities with a swing part with a progression sort of in style of Soft Machine.

"Supertwister" showcases Latimer's flute abilities in an unusual time signature scenario. A really enjoyable tune, placed perfectly after a very mature and intelectual sounding rock-out on "Freefall"

"Nimnrodel/White Rider/Procession" is a three-movemental suite, lyrically based on Tolkien's Lord Of the Rings. This is in my opinion one of the most beautiful tracks in the history of prog rock with Andy Latimer's deep, bassy voice, creamy guitar tone and a wide plethora of Pete Bardens' keyboard sounds. The song ends with a very Floydian jam, with Andy Latimer making use of his slide guitar playing.

"Earthrise" is a pleasant piece with a very catchy theme of a Moog synthesizer paired with Andy Latimer's guitar. Than, we can hear a beautiful, screaming guitar and a springy sounding Moog solo on a very fast jazzy jam. A pleasant, enjoyable tune.

"Lady Fantasy" is what some (including me) consider an ultimate rock suite. It has three movements, all with different flows. A true masterpiece with beautiful, lush and smooth sounding keyboards and breathtaking guitar solos. It is a very relaxing one. The lyrics tell the story of "A lady we all see, but never can hold" - Lady Fantasy. This ends the album, with the listener completely overwhelmed with what he or she has just expirienced.

"Mirage" is a true work of art. One of the best progressive rock albums in the history. "Highly recommended" is a brutal understatement, so I'll just leave you here with your own choice.

Also, if I didn't mention, I quite like this album :)