ASHES ARE BURNING

I think if I were asked by a band that did the genuine "progressive symphonic rock", I certainly would point Renaissance. Not only the symphonic elements that would make the band so well known, but also because his music breathes the erudite compositions. It is classic in the best sense of the word, and I'm really captivated by the sound of them.

Judging by the notes of the albums of the period 1973-1975 the band here on the website, you can tell that they are the best. Ashes Are Burning is the first where we see the participation of an orchestra, though contrary to what I thought, it is not present in all the songs. This is certainly an album more "classic" and more mature than its predecessor. Annie Haslam and his angelic voice is the highlight here, and the extensive use of piano (which is the instrument of greater prominence, unlike the guitar).

Opening with the wonderful Can You Understand , which was the track that made ​​me interested in the band. Here you can see how the band is heavily influenced by Russian classical music , and I have to say that the interactions between the orchestra and members is divine . Let It Grow is a simple track ( I really like your introduction , with the decrease of piano notes in 4/8 ) , as well as Carpet of the Sun. On the Frontier is another highlight that , although slightly less than 5 minutes , is quite complex and replete with different melodies , using synthesizers at times. At the Harbour is a fixed rather melancholy , opening with a piano solo two minutes that brings me to a church , until Annie and the acoustic guitar enters . The end resumes the initial theme , with some vocalizations . And the title track is another major highlight . I love the duets in the chorus , the long instrumental passages with organ and end with a great guitar solo by Andy Powell .

5 stars ! A masterpiece !

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