THE JEWEL

My first encounter to PENDRAGON, surprisingly good debut album. I wanted to get "...Overture" first, since I heard too many praises in its adress, but I've chanced to get "The Jewel" for half-price first. Now, when I know how other albums sound like, I must admit "The Jewel" is quite different record, more fusion-inspired. It's like they took CAMEL as the prime influence (instead of GENESIS or PINK FLOYD for other Neo-Proggers), and the further album goes the more CAMELish it becomes. Both shorter songs and long epics filled with wonderful arrangements and catchy melodies (not to mention that 'tight' musicianship!). The only thing that works against the album is a recording quality, but there's nothing to be afraid of if you know the conditions for British Neo-Prog scene in those times (pure underground!). Recommended, especially if you're into such type of music