BLONDEL

This is the first album recorded after the departure of writer Gladwin. Baird and Wincott decided to continue as a duo. Baird proved to be a valid writer too but the music was subjected to a significant change of direction.

While the sound remains predominantly acoustic, the sound is "updated" (acoustic instruments are less varied) and "modern" (thanks to drums and bass guitar played by Steve Winwood).

The fantastic opener "The Leaving of a Country Lover" starts with deep orchestral murmurings and then developes one of the most beautiful melodies I ever heard. The closer is even better, short, sad, aching, intense and romantic as never before.

In the middle a bunch of (folk) feathers and, above all, the most satisfying record from the band, in my opinion, although there is no high points as in "Fantasia Lindum" self titled suite.