PROLOGUE

This must be unique (or at least an exception) in rock music. The whole line-up has changed between two albums! And the musical style as well. As soon as you have listened to the title track, you know that something else is going on. Inspired, fresh and melodic.

This album is indeed the "prologue" of a brilliant career. The typical "Renaissance" sound starts with this album. The classical and very much piano-oriented music is all here. I am just missing Annie during the first two songs in which she has more a backing than leading vocal role. But the great "Kiev" is still one of my favourite on this album. But there are plenty of highlights on this great album.

The beautiful "Sounds Of The Sea" (displaying indeed some seagull sounds) is another very pleasant and thrilling moment. On this occasion, Annie is fully in command of the vocal (finally). More "Renaissance" than this is difficult. Another highlight.

The band is right on track now. The compositions (mainly written by Dunford and Thatcher who were not full-time band members, the latter being in charge for the lyrics) are very well crafted. And I am completely biased by Annie's fantastic vocal part during another excellent song : "Spare Some Love".

She is definitely very influent in terms of band recognition. IMHHO, she incarnates brilliantly the wonderful sound that the band will impose for some years. Even a short and sweet tune as "Bound For Infinity" is emotional thanks to her brilliant vocal part. I told you, I'm biased, so be prepared for some raving reviews.

The central piece of this album is a long track (almost instrumental if you except the vocalizing work) which sounds slightly different than the rest. A harder and more guitar oriented track which is kind of a rarity for the band. Oriental influenced, it sounds at times as a Page improv (during the opening part). Percussion work is particularly well played. Maybe a bit too long and repetitive, but still a very good way to close the first truly "Renaissance" album.

Four stars.