THE CRY OF PLEASURE

After a very long break in their career after the miserable "Cry Out" and the theft of their equipment during an Alice Cooper's European tour for which the band was support act (and which will leave an indelible mark on them, for many reasons) the band decided to reform. They had some fun together during a well known Belgian event (Francofolies in Spa) which saw them back on stage with another one of our national glory (there aren't many over here) : Stellla (yes, three lll's).

It is the only Machiavel record without Marc Isaye (a founding member). To be able to use the "Machiavel" name, he was offered either a royalty fee or a fixed fee. He opted for the latter option which was a good choice since this album won't sell.

And if you listen to it, you can understand why. Very poor music my friends. Funky styled during several songs, the worse being achieved with "Wait" although "Your Soul" is pretty bad as well. If ever you are into AOR, "Children Calling" or "Fight For Love" might be of appeal to you, but it is ABSOLUTELY not my case. "Press next"T.

There is actually one very good song included on this album : "No Way To Heaven". It is a fan favourite and still played during their concerts nowadays. Since it is really the only good song from this dreadful album, I recommend to get one out of many compilation albums to avoid you such a painful experience. To listen again to this album in its entirety was a kind of VERY difficult task for me.

I am not 100% sure, but the worse might well be achieved with "Flesh & Blood". Vaguely "Yes" oriented (but the "Yes" of the eighties if you see what I mean).

I am still thinking of my brother (not John, but Jean-Luc) who had to listen to this nightmare while converting it for me. He did a great job, but since the source was so poor, he could hardly improve it. As I say to my customers : sh*t in, sh*t out.

There is of course only one rating possible. And I definitely owe Jean-Luc a good dinner for his services. Thanks a lot brother and sorry for having done this to you!

I am indeed crying, but not of pleasure.