PAPER MONKEYS

This album continues much in the same vein as the previous release, "The Yum Yum Tree". In truth this is less of a band these days and more of an Ed Wynne solo project, with less playing by a group than some of the earlier releases from the classic Ozrics period (basically the 90's).

But the main problem here isn't the dominance of Ed Wynne, who I should add is responsible for some truly great compositions and performances across many Ozrics releases. It's more that much of this release just sounds a bit uninspired, and lacks the freshness and intensity that the albums had up until (and including) The Hidden Step.

On the surface many of the essential ingredients are right - ozric trademark synth sounds: check, wild guitar solos: check, but some of these sounds are perhaps by now in danger of being over used, and more importantly the compositions just aren't as satisfying as they used to be.

There are some nice moments here (such as on Attack of the Vapours, Paper Monkeys & Will of the Wisps), and I'm sure those who liked Yum Yum Tree will appreciate this album too, but for me it doesn't approach the greatness I used to expect from Ozrics albums.