TICK TOCK

There are a few (inevitable) observations to get out of the way first, and I am sure you will see similar comments within subsequent reviews. On occasions, historically and within their latest recording, they sound similar to Marillion (Hogarth era), Radiohead, Talk Talk, even Muse. I have no issues with that as the whole is far greater than the sum of its parts in terms of the musical influences included.

In respect of the apparent Marillion influence, it is ironic that Gazpacho, with 'Night' and 'Tick Tock', have possibly surpassed the very best of Marillion. After the huge disappointment of Marillion's recent 'Happiness is the Road', 'Tick Tock', I feel, is the type of record that Marillion SHOULD be making. Nevertheless, that is unlikely to happen as Marillion reached their peaked creatively with 'Brave', arguably.

I must say that 'Tick Tock' has a similar feel to 'Brave'; therefore, comparisons may prove inevitable amongst aficionados of the two bands.

I was hoping that 'Tick Tock' would be 'Night 2' stylistically as 'Night' was a near perfect record. 'Tick Tock' is very different to 'Night' but without losing the sense of originality, identify, and grandeur we have grown accustomed to.

It does not have the same sense of flow and fluidity that ran through 'Night' from start to finish. That is not a criticism by the way as, I believe, 'Tick Tock' is supposed to be something very different.

'Tick Tock' weaves through a number of diverse styles and textures, almost like musical chapters, and is prepared to pause for breath on occasions.

The surprisingly rocky 'Desert Flight' opens proceedings, but the music evolves beautifully through this piece and the two part 'The Walk'.

This brings us to the 22 minute title track. Quite frankly, words defy me to describe this track. It is beautifully haunting, sombre, emotional, etc, and absolutely demands your attention from start to finish; from the opening tick tock effect, through the heartbreaking gregorian chant and beyond, through the emotional floodgates of the climax, up to the closing strains of the ticking clock.

'Winter is Never' is the closing chapter of the story, and this subtle and uplifting piece brings the listener back down to earth, allowing you to reflect on the 48 minutes that have just passed.

All fans of progressive music should seek out this record, then decide for themselves where this record stands in terms of musical achievement.

In closing, thanks Gazpacho for a beautiful record.

Scudge1970

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