PERFORMANCE

"Eloy" has been quite faitful to its sound in the early eighties which needs to be said here because not many prog bands did so. But with "Performance", the dream has come to an end.

The opener "In Disguise" is seriously electro-pop oriented. I really don't like it. But most of this album is disappointing, little inspired. "Mirador" is as poor as the poorest "Genesis" songs of this period. Slow and heavy beat, just notes; no melody, no nothing. One of the worst song of this album.

I guess that the worse of "Eloy" is being reached with "Surrender". Another insipid track. Full of heavy keyboards. Where are those catchy songs ? All gone I 'm afraid. The only track which is not as bad in this opening sequence is "Shadow & Light". But do not be over-enthusiastic, it is a simple rock song which wouldn't even have been mentioned on other "Eloy" albums. At least, it rocks a bit.

I can't fully adhere to "Heartbeat" and its "Buggles" oriented vocals (synthetized). The "Buggles" were able to write great pop songs, which is absolutely not the case of "Eloy". The synth pop "Fools" being another example of very poor songwritting even if there is a good guitar work.

IMO, the only interesting song is "A Brocken Frame". The thythm is very repetitive and a great guitar solo will fill it with class. But one good track (even if it is the longest one - just over eight minutes) can not save this messy album.

"Eloy" finally (and unfortunately) entered the eighties. Three years later. At least it gave them the time to release two good albums during these difficult times for prog bands.

Two stars.

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