THE VISION PIT

I decided to write few words The Vision Pit in a defense of this underrated record. Despite the low reception I consider this album certainly as a band's finest achievement, having all positive trademarks of previous albums. I see it as one of key neo-prog albums in 90s. The Vision Pit is darker and I would say slightly more sophisticated, memorable and consistent than previous two, and is probably harder to get into.

Compositionally it goes more adventurous path and for some reason it has quite strong impact on me. Great for purgatorial journey through the coldness, broodiness and despair, it nicely elevates the emotions. Its atmosphere includes variety of moods, from uplifting, to sad and mournful, from furious to dreamy, evil and grotesque. Synthesizers' patterns are wisely chosen (although some of them may sound a bit 'outdated' today) to intertwine with the sharp chorus lead guitar and interesting rhythm structures, melodic basslines. There is no exhibition, instruments complement each other.

Above all, Damian Wilson shows his distinctively impressive voice at his finest. Soulful melancholy and vocal acrobatics give the music unique face along with the instrumentation. Ideas and chord progressions are inventive, but still melodic. Dynamic shifts are done very well, so it holds my attention over the entire album. I really like every single song on it, despite the first side being slightly stronger.

I'd say it is a fine prog album even in 'objective terms' (odd tepmos, mood shifts...), but also it has kind of extra magic and certain chemistry which moves it into quite special place in my music collection. Especially if you are fan of rich and melodic neo-prog moments, from the bands like Arena, IQ, Credo, Pendragon or projects involving Damian Wilson - give it a chance! You might be pleasantly surprised. Good 4 stars.