DANGER MONEY

UK is an English group from the late seventies that launched its transitional albums (somewhere between symphonic and neo-prog) to great acclaim. Originally the band had recorded with fusion guitarist Allan Holdsworth, the band was now reduced to a trio with John Wetton (King Crimson), Eddie Jobson (Roxy Music) and Terry Bozzio (who replaced Bill Bruford). The formation of a supergroup is always a reason for wild criticism, but UK is actually one of the best recording progressive groups of its era.

'Danger Money' represents the full-blown keyboard prog that fans of ELP should probably like. Furthermore, the band has some harmonic edges from King Crimson (to the point of copying Red's middle section) and even some pop sensibilities on the song 'Rendezvous 6:02'. The recording of this album very polished and professional and it might well have benefited from a less mechanical sound. By now Wetton had become an outstanding vocalist.

My main problem with this album is that is so typically prog that I can't find much personality on it. Its extremely well-played and composed, but it doesn't stick all that much. I guess I'm just not the right listener for this kind of music, which is why I won't give it two stars. Collectors of vinyl should have no problem finding an original copy of this record in Europe.