IN CAMERA

Like Hammill's two previous solo albums ("Chameleon In The Shadow Of The Night" & "The Silent Corner And The Empty Stage") "In Camera" is a dark, emotional, experimental and at times insane journey that is difficult to digest. No one writes lyrics like Hammill and no one can sing with such passion and emotion either. Yet for all the admiration and praise for these three consecutive records there are those who will look at these albums like they would a train wreck. Amazing and unforgettable yes, but do I really want to experience that again ? For me the answer is yes, just not that often. These are special albums to say the least.

"Ferret And The Featherbird" is an almost awkward start as it never seems to get off the ground. Intricate sounds to open and vocals come in after a minute. Not the most melodic tune that's for sure. "(No More) The Sub-Mariner" builds with keyboards as bass and reserved vocals join in. The vocals do get passionate at times. I like the synths on this one. "Tapeworm" is really the first song to have some energy. Piano to open and a full sound kicks in quickly. Vocals follow. A calm before 2 1/2 minutes with vocal melodies. It kicks back in. I like the guitar. Great song. "Again" is mainly reserved vocals, acoustic guitar and bass.

"Faint-Heart And The Sermon" and the next two tracks are really outstanding. This is so moving just listening to Hammill sing. Keyboards, cello-like sounds, orchestral sounds all add to the atmosphere here. Amazing tune. "The Comet, The Course, The Tail" is laid back with almost spoken vocals and acoustic guitar. Bass joins in as the sound gets fuller. Some passion 3 1/2 minutes in to the end. "Gog Magog (In Bromine Chambers)" is the almost 17 1/2 minute closer. Fasten your seat belts people. Powerful organ as the vocals come in. Drums come to the fore after 2 minutes as Hammill spits out the lyrics. The first 8 minutes of this tune are insane. Then the last half is filled with experimental sounds and vocal expressions as it drifts into another dimension.

It will take me years to fully grasp these three albums, if indeed it even happens. This is the work of an artist.