THE WAKE

I am amazed by the high praise this album garners-- it is laughably mediocre when compared to their principle inspiration's (Genesis) and their contemporary's (Marillion) excellent work. "The Wake" is a poorly recorded and performed mess of songs that never get off the ground or manage to spark the intended artistic interest generated by the band's prog forbearers. The rhythm section is bland while the guitar is shrill and equally unexciting... and the vocal's must be a very acquired taste. That being said, the songwriting is occasionally interesting, but the performances do little to get one excited about them.

I suppose IQ's contribution to the short-lived prog revival of the '80's is worthy of respect, but those looking for an example of this era's sound would do better seeking elsewhere. Listen before you buy!

Songwriting: 2 Instrumental Performances: 1 Lyrics/Vocals: 1 Style/Emotion/Replay: 1