SCHEHERAZADE AND OTHER STORIES

First of all, I only became interested in this album because I was wanting to buy music from artists who record the longer 20 minute plus stuff. I had only heard this band one time, and I didn't pay much attention to it at the time. I finally purchased Scheherazade after trying for 2 years to get it at the record store with no success. I actually got it at a 2nd time around place for considerably less. I have got to say that it is one of the best CDs I have ever heard. I loved Trip to the fair right away. Then Scheherazade. Now I love the whole album after 5 listens. It is very visual. What I like most about Scheherazade is that you can close your eyes when it starts playing and you are immediately transported to another time and place. Who needs TV with music like this. It has a perfect blend of orchestra and the band. They are certainly a gifted group of musicians. The music is what this CD is about. I got goose bumps 3 times during the chorus. It sounds mysterious and wonderful. This is truely what prog is all about. I would have liked to have heard more guitar than just the rhythm, but they didn't really need a lead guitar for this one. This could easily be played on the classical music stations. It is that perfect. Anne is killer! I compare her to Julie Andrews. She is something to hear! In fact all the musicians are excellent. I thought Gates of Delirium was the best song I ever heard until I gave this one a spin. Guess what rating I am giving this?!