MOONMADNESS

Camel explore very unique territory with each release. This is their fourth album and definitely one of their best featuring some of their most eclectic symphonic prog tracks such as Song Within a Song and Lunar Sea. I had heard these tracks on a compilation and knew I would sooner or later be getting this CD. The album features in the top 40 best prog albums in the Mojo magazine prog special.

I was not disappointed. Each track is beautifully, masterfully executed with incredible musical virtuoso playing from each member. Latimer's guitars are perfectly balanced by Ward's drumming and the keyboard talents of Barden's. The keyboardist also trys his vocal talents on Spirit of The Water which is phased out psychedelic beauty. The instrumental sections of each track are the highlights, not taking anything away from the vocal talents of the band who all take turns on this release.

Song Within a Song is what it purports to be, a song hidden within another song and it does feature many metrical time changes as is akin to the music of Camel. Air Born is a beautiful sonata style piece that virtually ebbs and flows on the air. This is a similar style to The Snow Goose, the previous album that was purely instrumental.

The best track on the album is Lunar Sea, a 9 minute extravaganza, that works as a multi movement suite, in the great classical tradition, but this is symphonic rock. It has become a staple of the Camel live concert and features as a bonus live track, equally as well executed. In fact the bonus features on the Decca remastered CD are a definite drawcard. There are 5 in total - the single version of Another Night, a demo of Spirit Of The Water, and live 1976 versions of Song Within A Song, Lunar Sea and Preparation / Dunkirk. The bonus material clocks in at over 30 minutes! This caps off a great CD release. The best of Camel is right here, make no mistake.