MARINE MENAGERIE

Competent Japanese soft fusion band's third album is kind of compilation. Almost every song there was released before on early band's albums, but for this album all compositions were re-arranged and re-recorded.

Music there is light, well balanced and strongly influenced by Camel sound. Ain Soph always openly showed their influences (their previous albums were named "Hat And Field" and "Ride On A Camel"), and there they put all things together. If Canterbury (or "Hatfield and North") influence is not so obvious, melodic soft symphonic prog (or "Camel") is presented there in whole. You can even find there some heavier guitar soloing (in few places)!

Will you like this music or not mostly depends on your taste. Melodic, professionally played ,good arranged, symphonic fusion of this album is a pleasant listening. Just don't expect too much of originality or new ideas (better don't expect at all). Just enjoy the music.

My rating - 3+.