SONGS FROM RENAISSANCE DAYS

Renaissance

Symphonic Prog

2.16 | 64 ratings

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ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer

At times, I really wonder what comes to the minds of bands as Renaissance.

Of course, in 1997 (the year of the release of this album), the band doesn't play in the first nor the second division. But to release an album (almost) full of left-over songs from their pop-oriented second career is very daring.

Only one song is a little older. Their hit single "Northern Lights" (1978) which isn't any better here than it was originally (on the contrary).

Now, to be correct, there are some good songs featured as well. The beautiful (but mellow) ballad "Dreamaker" demonstrates, if necessary, all the talent of the marvelous Annie. An excellent melody and a very enjoyable musical moment.

"Island Of Avalon" can also be linked with the good days of the band. A pleasant folkish little tune. Fresh and simple and the cover of "America" (Paul Simon) is not bad either. But don't expect anything such as the magnificent "Yes" one. Almost normally, this version is much more straight forward. Light and subtle music and again a great vocal interpretation from Annie.

But there are also some nightmares: the disgusting "No Beginning, No End", a syrupy "Only When I Laugh", the poppy "The Body Machine" or "Writers Wronged". At the end of the day far too many songs without any texture nor feeling. Better to have remained in the boxes IMHHO.

A version of "You" was already released on the second leg of their "Live At The Royal Albert Hall". Some sections of it are particularly brilliant (the vocal intro) but others are just average. The longest song of this album is also above par.

Still, I wouldn't rate this album with more than two stars.

ZowieZiggy | 2/5 | 2008-4-19

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