RENAISSANCE

This is the really first Renaissance album: the singer is Jane Relf, not Annie Haslam. A completely different bunch of musicians, compared to the Renaissance of the 70's. Jane Relf's vocals are not really always in the foreground: other musicians also sing on this album. For those who expect an Annie Halsam performance, then forget about it. The lead & backing vocals are interesting though. This record is definitely piano oriented: when there are piano or harpsichord, this album sounds quite classical baroque. On the first side, it is a bit disappointing to hear an outstanding first baroque part, followed by a rythmic piano rock ballad containing harmonica a la Zappa, and finally finished with a minimalist psychedelic instrumental part. This record, like the next one, has some psychedelic influences. The best moment is definitely the progressive part on Innocence: very structured and delightful! For 1969, this record is really avant-garde.