THE LOST ATTIC - A COLLECTION OF RARITIES (1983-1999)

The progressive rock band IQ is releasing a rarities album with old and new songs, unused songs, fan club releases, previously unreleased songs, contributions on other CDs, 12" single releases, gig releases and BBC radio sessions. Previously hard-to-get songs are collected on this release. You might think that this is something only for the die-hard IQ fans out there, but that's oh so wrong! I had never heard IQ before I got this CD, and now I'm really curious to hear more. If these unreleased songs is so good, what about the albums? I can only imagine! Their music is neo-progressive / symphonic rock in the same vein as MARILLION, LANDMARQ and PENDRAGON, but sometimes also RUSH and YES. The vocals are very varied. Sometimes they remind of Dicken and Edward Carter of Mr. Big, and sometimes of Peter GABRIEL. My favourite song is "Hollow Afternoon (1999 recording)". This song is sending shivers down my spine. What a beautiful song! Other highlights are the opening track "The Universal Scam" and the beautiful ballad "Eyes Of the Blind". Both songs were originally intended for their album "Subterranea". Another great track is "The Last Human Gateway (middle section)". The only really awful song on this CD is "Barbell is in (12" Lizard Mix). Another unnecessary track is the spoken track "My Legs", although it's quite funny. The excellent 20-page booklet made by Tony Lythgoe with a cover illustration made by Peter Nicholls is very informative. It's got lyrics, comments, photos, history, and information on each track and much more. This is surely a must have for all IQ fans, but it does stand for itself even though you've never heard IQ before. If you're curious about IQ, buy this album. Recommended!