CIRCUS

This was CIRCUS' debut from 1976. It's quite mellow with lots of flute. It's interesting that the vocalist sometimes sounds like Ian Anderson and at other times like Peter Hammill. He sings in a reserved manner for the most part which suits the music here. I should mention that many consider the follow-up to this "Movin On" to be a minor classic.

"Stormsplineter" settles in with vocals quickly as flute plays over top. His vocals remind me of Ian Anderson here. Some impressive bass later. "Nowadays" is barely audible for over 2 minutes then it kicks in. It's quiet again before 4 minutes as contrasts continue. "Sundays" is mellow with keys, guitar, flute and drums standing out. Vocals join in around 1 1/2 minutes. Lots of flute when the vocals stop.

"Dawntalk" doesn't have much going on and no melody until after 2 minutes. Sax and flute arrive later. Some prominant bass too. "Room For Sale" is the over 15 minute closer. It picks up before 2 minutes with flute, guitar, bass and drums. Vocals 4 1/2 minutes in as it settles right down. Some chunky bass 6 minutes in. I like the instrumental section before 10 minutes to 12 1/2 minutes.

A good album without a doubt but the next one is an improvement in pretty much every area.