BATTLE LINES [AKA: VOICE MAIL]

A fine album. The presence of rock musician/producer Bob Marlette (Alice Cooper, Joe Satriani...) is maybe the reason of the great sound on this album. For the songs, it's a good mix of straightforward rock and beautiful ballads.

The album starts with a little soundscape from Mr Robert Fripp (!) that opens the way for the catchy "Right Where I Wanted To Be". One thing to say... the opener on every John Wetton album really blows. "Battle Lines" is a great ballad - very emotional. The only track I find weak on this album is the following track "Jane" - it's kinda cheesy and unfortunately prefigures the style that will prevail on the following releases. "Crime Of Passion" reminds me of the Asia years. "Sea Of Mercy" and "Space And Time" are probably the most straightforward rock songs on this album. "Hold Me Now" is another beautiful ballad - in the style of "Battle Lines" but even more emotional. "Walking On Air" is a relaxing mellow track again - minimal music and gentle vocals. "You're Not The Only One" closes the album with another ballad - a great way to end this fine album.

Rating: 91/100