THE SNOW GOOSE

The Snow Goose is a very ambitious record for a so young band at the time (just Camel's third LP) and can certainly be considered as one of the best in a sub symphonic prog category : instrumental with an orchestra.

Andy Latimer and Peter Bardens proove on this one they were two great composers (if necessary because previous LP Mirage was already outstanding). The Snow Goose is full of very nice melodies. The "songs" are short but the whole record is very well constructed and totally coherent. The use of the orchestra isn't too forced and there is no gap with the band sound.

So is it a masterpiece of prog music ? I don't think so. In fact, The Snow Goose is too well constructed. I mean everything is under control. There is no madness or improvisation in this music. Everything is at his right place and played with elegance but I personnally appreciate a bit more of spontaneity in creation.

Conclusion : an excellent addition to any prog music collection. To be heard by people who appreciate symphonic prog on his softer side.