THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES

The core duo is surrounded by some close friends who were already playing on their previous common effort "Jabberwocky" but there is one additional artist who IMO had a major influence here: Arjen Lucassen. Actually, this album almost sounds as an Ayreon production.

Which means that from time to time, some pomposity can be felt. It is the case with the "Overture" although I quite like it (but I am an ELP fan, so in terms of pompous, I'm quite immune by now).

This concept album is taken from a Conan Doyle famous work. Since I have seen a TV picture based on it, it was not difficult to follow the storyboard. For sure, it seems to have been written to be played at a West End theatre.

Lots of instrumental passages are introduced/closed by the narrator who sets the scene. I am not too found of this though. But I guess that it was necessary; just to break the battle between both flamboyant keyboard players.

Arjen's influence is very much present in "Shadows Of Fate". The riff is hard, almost metal at times. But melody is present as well. Same apply to "Waiting" much later on this album.

I also particularly appreciate the fine vocal work of Tracy Hitchings who has been singing with "Landmarq" for a while. She was also a guest on their previous work.

But my feeling is that this work is far too long to keep the listener interested from start to finish. To pay full attention for almost seventy minutes is rather demanding. Still, a song like "Seldon" is quite catchy and the guitar break is gorgeous.

Chasing The Hound is also well achieved and closes this work brilliantly. A good album from the pair Nolan / Wakeman (and friends).