THE ROAD OF BONES

I've never written a review for progarchives before, although I have visited the site many times over the years - great website - so good to know people are still flying the flag for this kind of music.

So, The Road of Bones, after living with it for a while I felt I had to put pen to paper for the first time with this latest album from IQ. I know its been said by many reviewers on the site, but it really is a cut above your average prog album. Of course I got the 2 disc edition - why wouldn't you? - and again I agree with the majority of people: its a double album rather than a lot of bonus tracks. These extra songs could easily be a new album in their own right - I'm not sure why the band didn't just release them a year later as the new CD.

Anyway, the main disc is 53 minutes of pure prog heaven - there really isn't a duff moment, and with so many standout bits I can only say the whole thing is perfect (don't like saying that as it leaves them no room to improve, but I suspect they will in time). For me the album just flows by so quickly - from the perfect dark and sombre (but maybe tongue in cheek?) beginning of From The Outside In to the final closing 'sets you free' lyric of the final track Until The End. I defy you to be unmoved by that last section, and it just has the effect of making me want to go back to the beginning again.

Songs are great, the playing is superb by everyone, the production by Mike Holmes positively shines, and the lyrics once again really make you think. Peter Nicholls just gets better and better.

I think probably those of you who want to get this album have already got it, but for those who have yet to make up their mind, just go for it, REALLY! It really is that good.