FANFARE & FANTASY

Immediately Comedy of Errors are reminiscent of Marillion with Fish at the helm or even Peter Gabriel;s theatrical flair due to the vocal style of Joe Cairney. On 'Fanfare For The Broken Hearted' Cairney exudes the charisma of said artists though perhaps is closer to the style of Pendragon, Pallas or IQ. This is Neo Prog with the emphasis on Neo though it is not exactly surprising in terms of sound or influences. Even the front cover looks like Marillion met Pendragon for an art contest, however the music will appeal to the Neo Progger no doubt.

It took me a while to revel in the music but it does grow on the listener due to the infectious melodies and some exceptional musicianship, especially Mark Spalding's extended lead guitar solos howling over ambient Mellotron. 'Something She Said' is another melodic song with great lead and organ phrases. There is nice grand piano and a grandiose Hammond unleashing some 70s vibes. The sound is akin to Genesis at times and you have to love the happy Hammond sound of Jim Johnston.

'In A Lifetime' is next with Bruce Levick's drumming in perfect unison with Spalding's bass and rhythm guitar blasts. Cairney's vocals are easy on the ears and he sings of making time for things that matter , to say goodbye to the baggage that we carry, and "maybe now I'll get to find out who I am". This song has a soulful edge and is more melancholic than most songs on offer here. 'Going For A Song' is also gentle with nice harmonies and swooping Mellotrons.

'Merry Dance' has a happy vibe and upbeat tempo, 'Time's Motet and Galliard', is a Mellotron soaked spacey track, a Yes soundalike, 'Remembrance' is replete with classical piano, slow time sig, and heartfelt passionate vocals and lyrics, and the final track, 'The Answer', indulges in extended soloing with virtuoso performances on keyboards and guitar. There are many sections in this mini epic, from speed keyboard playing to a steady measured pace with Cairney's vocals reminding me of Geddy Lee at 7 minutes in. Overall "Fanfare & Fantasy" has some incredible musicianship and is quite a lengthy Neo album with an uplifting atmosphere and bright tempos. Recommended for the Neo Prog target audience.