THE WAKE

IQ followed-up their excellent debut album with 1985's 'The Wake', a record that has since been considered one of the high points of the neo-progressive movement, and this rather peculiar album is indeed a fine continuation of a style the band had been pioneering and refining since their formation. For what concerns this LP, it is a daring record that introduces a darker, more compelling and emotive atmosphere, definitely soaking up the gothic undertones of its predecessor and the popular early releases by Marillion and Twelfth Night. The result is an album in which the overly theatrical and dynamic symphonic passages dominate, all while preserving the intricate synth-driven style of play that had been introduced on the debut album. At the same time, Mike Holmes' guitars are more prominent and aggressive on 'The Wake', which is commendable. It seems like IQ are experimenting with heavier, more ominous tones here, which would necessarily turn out to influence the entire sub-genre.

Opening track 'Outer Limits' picks up where 'Tales' had left off - with the quirky and pastoral symphonic build-up, we also have a thumping rhythm that really drives the song. This piece is a fine example of the predictable "Genesis-worship" style of writing and playing, which many neo-prog bands of the 80s champion. However, at the other end of the spectrum, this album offers several irresistible pieces of melodramatic, dark and brooding progressive rock with stabbing synths and atmospheric, dreamy guitar solos, always placing a great emphasis on the melody, on the transitions between different section, and the staggering musicianship - 'Widow's Peak' and 'Headlong', together with the title track all carry these characteristic elements that make early IQ so compelling and influential. 'The Magic Roundabout' is another interesting longer-format song, this one centered around the lush, synth-laden soundscapes of the band's debut album, while tracks like 'Corners' and 'The Thousand Days' tend to wander off a bit, interrupting the otherwise excellent flow of 'The Wake'. Excellent neo-progressive rock with strong melodies, a theatrical presentation and impressive musicianship.

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