RECYCLED

Masterpiece checklist (admittedly based on my subjective interpretation): epic structure (check), cohesive and interesting album theme (check), interesting melody throughout (check), no obvious flaws (i.e., no hares who lost their spectacles; double--check!), good musicianship (check)...

...and, it's all there, but for some reason, the parts just don't add up. At least not to a masterpiece in my book.

But let's focus on the positives, because there are many to talk about. First off, some of Nektar's previous work was simply too slow, too unexciting in spots. Well, they certainly have addressed that here, and then some! Vocals are also much better, and the choir is a very nice touch. Also, little touches such as sound effects here and a tympani there also really boost the overall effect.

Side 1 is an upbeat rocker, brimming with energy. I could use some wailing guitar solos--which I know Albrighton could easily provide--but that has never been Nektar's style anyway. I think it's a solid, yet imperfect, epic, probably in my top 100 of all time.

Side 2 changes things up, but provides a nice change of pace. Instead of hard-driving, this is more danceable--prog disco, if you will--but quite catchy.. Nice transitions to tie the songs together, and all finished by a lovely (though a bit depressing, lyrics-wise) finale.

Overall, a solid album from Nektar--in fact, for what little it's worth--my favorite from them. It may not get me to recycle more, but it will remain in my regular playlist!

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