EMPIRES NEVER LAST

Having been given a progrock compilation at Christmas and finding GALAHADS 'Empires Never Last' on the first CD and then replaying that track continuously I naturally became intrigued with what else the group had done. I bought the back catalogue and set about listening.

Unfortunately the experience was in the main wasted ? Fish era Marillion was the overriding verdict. However the self title album 'Empires Never Last' immediately stood head and shoulders above any of their previous material, here was an accomplished album that blew the past cobwebs away taking them into new territory.

GALAHAD had arrived at their zenith.

This album, for me, epitomises what is best about Neo Prog; tracks that are allowed to naturally develop, that has that ability to lead the listener on an adventure. Arguably it is the keyboards that drive this album forward, however without the 'heavy' guitar and drums it would never have held up. As an ensemble the 'whole' works extremely well. The only downside (and this applies to GALAHADS other material) are the lame lyrics, not only repetitive but shallow, almost jingoistic, however Stuart Nicholson's vocals and his belief in them adds immensely to the experience.

Though veering on the heavier side, musically, the musicianship cannot be questioned in any way, shape or form. However 'Memories Of An African Twin' is somewhat of a throwaway track when placed in context with the rest of the fare.

Strange that the compilation album that introduced me has chosen, probably, the best track from this excellent album, and group.

GALAHAD has certainly come of age with this release.