PROLOGUE

This was the first album with the majority of the new line up in place, the band having undergone a total metamorphosis since the second album. And it's clear that the nucleus of greatness is there though not yet having reached its full potential. Annie Haslam's exquisite voice has purity, clarity and an incredible range, though some say she lacks a little in emotional variation, which may be valid. Melodically, the band rely heavily on John Tout's keyboard wizardry and his piano playing is of an exceptionally high standard, heavily classically influenced. The guitar is perhaps more prominent on this album than the successors, since Rob Hendry was replaced by composer in chief Michael Dunford after this album, and Rajah Khan benefits greatly from his playing, the best track on the album. Jon Camp's Rickenbacker often plays in the upper part of its range to fill out the sound. Most of the tracks are soft, melodic and soothing, Prologue excepted. This and Rajah Khan forego conventional lyrics and use the voice as a supplementary instrument, as Camel later did on the Snow Goose. It sounds wonderful. If you like music which is melodic and superbly played, like Genesis, Mostly Autumn or Camel, buy this. Those who like heavier, more experimental fare may want to look elsewhere. 4.25*.