DARK SIDE OF THE DUCK

Have listened to THE CD loads and loads (after I'd managed to get the tomatoes cleaned off the CD platter) and it proves that the arch exponent of thinking-man's keyboard driven instrumental prog rock is alive and well and living in Asheldham. My only criticism is it's a good length album for vinyl but too, too short for CD (and my car journey into work). Actually I think it's quite an eclectic collection of tracks that hangs together rather well as an album - Mr Morgan should definitely give up his day job.

"Leylines" (track 3) was already familiar from an original '80s Yak tape now sadly long since unplayable (how long before we're saying that about CDs?) - but I like this re-recorded version - initially my favorite track due to the familiarity I think (and the splendid new oriental motif MvM has sneaked in near the beginning). However, my current favorite is actually the first track "Theme" (I'm listening to it as I write). A short but wonderfully evocative piece, with echoes of Brian Eno and Barber's Adagio for Strings - sounds particularly fine when played at a reasonable volume (or unreasonable, if you're my wife) on the decent hi-fi. "Aragorn" is another stunning track with a sweeping theme that captures the majesty and strength of its subject.

It's difficult to pigeon-hole Yak. The sound has been likened to Camel and there is a distinctive Bardens influence there. I would in no way categorise Yak as "a tribute band" - but I think there are some nice tributes to Bardens in MvM's music.

This is a great proggy album and as the doleful piano appeggios of the last track "the Swan" die away all too soon, you are left wanting more... roll on the next album.