AWAKE AND DREAMING

Rather overlooked, but there are reasons for it. First of all, I still remember all the hype around it - "a blend of all influences" etc...Give it up. If you mean Neo mixed with Symphonic Prog, than OK, this is your unique blend.

Musically THE GIFT reminds me of MIKE OLDFIELD's early works - the same way melodic, accessible and boring closer to the end. The closest band comparable to THE GIFT is PENDRAGON, though Mike Morton' vocals are way behind Nick Barret's ones (rather average as for me). Hence the music itself reminds me of PINK FLOYD, PENDRAGON and some other Neo bands who work on that Side of the Neo ;) - PF-inspired concept works are what they adore. I was amazed by the level of melodism first, but the more I listened to it the less enthusiastic I became. Good, but definetely non-essential. Recommended, especially for FLOYD fans