PEPPER'S GHOST

Last of the really good and progressive Arena albums for a long time, as long as I am concerned. The band are still kicking alive and well with good twists, hooks and playing virtuosity. There are less melancholy and more dynamisn, as can be witness on the first track "Bedlam Fayre", led by great Mick Pointer's irregular rhythm and solemn organ in the chorus. "Smoke and mirrors" carries a great melody but is a tad static but still it has the typical synth Clive Nolan's solo. "The shattered room" reminds of previous Arena epics with its structure. Untypical of previous attempts, the heavy metallic drumming with steady bass drum is somewhat suprising but not discouraging. "Tantalus" has a great melody and actually still sounds closer to progressive metal than rock. "Opera fanatica" is a fantastic epic track with operatic vocals, symphonic organ sounds, metallic guitar and needed sense of drama. Guitar runs combined with hammond in the middle section are equally impressive. The anthemic singing with well complenting guitar and organ add a powerful finish to this great album. Definitely recommended!