THE MASQUERADE OVERTURE

Modern Symphonic Progressive Rock as it's best. This is the ONE to get if you are new to Pendragon. Their best to date. From the beautiful pastoral "Paintbox", to the Symphonic "Shadow" into the neo-prog "Master of Illusion". The musicianship is just fantastic. Nick Barrett gives enough space to everybody in the band to shine, and that's what in my opinion makes this band great...They got out of the shadow of Marillion to become Pendragon and their music. You con not argue, however Genesis or Marillion influences, but heck I do not mind at all. Strictly speaking this is a "neo"-progressive band, music based on guitar and synth rich and melodious, rather not complex (no GG here) while lyrics are more in the realm of fantasy and soul-searching, but I can hear symphonic touches in their compositions; being said that I have to agreed and respect that Pendragon music and Nick voice are a Love or Hate affair, and sometimes is difficult to fully appreciate. No place to gray zones (at least this album) but, laughing!! About it is actually preposterous by itself. Especially if you consider that neo-progressive by definition is a bit more mainstream and accessible.

I still give it 4 stars, one of the best releases of 1996 and the 90'.