CHRONICLES I

I was quite impressed with Eloy's Ocean, Silent Cries and Mighty Echoes, and Time to Turn, giving all three of them four stars each here at Prog Archives. But when I came across Chronicles I, I was quite intrigued. Instead of releasing a greatest hits compilation, Bornemann brought back some former Eloy members to re-record their greatest hits. Apparently Bornemann thought the original recordings from the 1970s were of low quality compared to the technology of the day (back in 1993), and wanted them to be represented in the light of newer recording technology. How's that for dedication?

I suppose some die-hard fans would cringe at such activities (remember Alan Parson's remixing of his debut album?), but I'm open to artists rehashing their old stuff to either make the original better performed or recorded with better quality. However, it has to be done right. One has to not only improve the song, but maintain it's original feel and energy. Otherwise, it might be best to just make another live album where you can experiment to your heart's desire, either improving them, or in most cases, totally ruining them.

Bornemann appears to be pretty crafty at this, as Chronicles I just blew me away. The improved quality on Poseidon's Creation and The Apocalypse alone are worth the price of getting this album, not to mention a series of incredible re-recordings of material taken from the Colours, Planets, and Time to Turn albums. All of this stuff was taken from Eloy's apex, 1977-1982.

Bornemann with his cohort, Michael Gerlach, are joined by former members Klaus-Peter Matziol, Hannes Arkona, Hannes Folberth, and Fritz Randow. Also included are drummer Nico Baretta and on the flute, Lenny MacDowell. Female backing vocalists add some excitement to Time to Turn and The Apocalypse.

This masterpiece compilation of re-recordings is a must-have for Eloy fans and also a highly recommended introduction for listeners looking to hear Eloy for their first time. Easily five stars.