RAISED IN CAPTIVITY

Finally a new album solo by John Wetton, after touring all over the world with Asia, whose artistic path is characterized by his more pop progressive side and by the mainstream style of the recent albums as well; even though, this time talking about his artistic growth, it's often a kind of consolidation, rather than a better step beyond, in comparison to his best solo albums like "Arkangel" and "Battlelines"...nevertheless the best song here, the title track, demonstrates his ability, along with the importance of the special guests, which have been called by John in order to support the fine orchestration of the album and that's an important goal! Instead the songs "Steffi's ring", "Don't misunderstand me" and "The devil and the opera house" (this latter a bit tiring towards the end), are more commercial, but the sense of melody, by replacing the instrumental support which is minimal, can remark the most natural music talent of this "ever-green" rocker of the British scene! Then I like to point out that the collaboration between Anneke van Giersbergen (former "The Gathering") and John- inside "Mighty Rivers"- is an intelligent and captivating duet, evolving into a symphonic breakthrough, which is the second best tune after "Raised in Captivity".

At the end I prefer John in his most natural efforts (think of "Lost For Words", which is perfect and fitted into the style by Bill Sherwood at all, without forgetting "We Stay Together", where the guitar work is very important....) and I can recommend the present album for the most relaxing moments, being supported by R. Fripp, S. Hackett and S. Morse in the best manner, also when it's more radio-friendly and the sessions by E. Jobson seem to be unuseful!!

It's very interesting anyway, perhaps not completely essential as a prog-related album, but nevermind...so make your personal choice as usual!!