EVER

After a few years hiatus, Mr Nichols returned to the fold and the band recorded a near masterpiece. What I like most about IQ is the gothiness. Not many Neo-prog bands I can think of that compares to IQ when it comes to mixing a gothic atmosphere with a tinge of mid-period Genesis. With Peter Nichols sad vocals singing songs of longing tied in with Holmes Hackett-like guitar and Olfords fantastic keyboard work, you have a combination that, for me, is the best in the genre. The album starts off with a song titled, "The Darkest Hour", which actually is NOT the darkest. It's more upbeat, especially in the beginning, although towards the end it slides into a more gothic groove. The following track, "Fading Senses" has all the trademarks of classic IQ., Nichol's haunting lyrics coupled with Olford's church/choir keys gives you a forboding feeling. It's in the second section of the song that Holmes guitar has a sadness that reminds you of classic horror soundtracks, vampire-like and spooky. Really cool song! "Out Of Nowhere" starts out rocking and is catchy as heck. A great 5 minute track. "Further Away" is the longest track and has the sound that IQ would use for the rest of their career up to this day. Very Genesis like courtesy of Holmes guitar, you'll definately hear "Wind And Wuthering" throughout the song, but he does have his own style especially when he reaches the higher, soaring notes. A fantastic track with Olford going crazy on keyboards halfway through. "Leap Of Faith" and "Came Down" meld together to make up another long track. Nichol's best singing are on these songs, with "Leap Of Faith" another classic IQ track with that wonderful gothic feeling running throughout. Olford definately takes some cues from Banks on this track, (Listen at the 5 minute mark). Overall, you can't go wrong with this album. A classic in the genre and a good starting point for the new to neo-prog. Is it their best? Not yet, but it's damn close.