SUMMER IN EDEN

Like Wendy started to become the hottest name in the catalogue of LaBraD'or Records.Although Marien appears to have been removed from any duties, Heinen wrote, played all instruments and recorded the fourth album of the project ''Summer in Eden'' with the help of Mark-Jeroen Heek on additional vocals (same man, who took over the artwork of the album), while LaBraD'or Records' boss Marc Brasse helped on mastering.The album came out in 2002.

Heinen was no stranger to situations like being alone in the studio and recording an album on his own, so ''Summer in Eden'' was yet another nice little treasure of romantic still intense Neo Prog with well-crafted arrangements and excellent instrumental mix.Compared to the previous albums, this is definitely the most retro-sounding release of Like Wendy, the album contains lots of soft organ themes and Mellotron snapshots in the process along with some flute strings, while the PINK FLOYD influence dominates the album, the display of some psychedelic flavors next to the more symphonic material is the best proof.The tracks are quite long, although no extreme epics are included, with some beautiful guitar solos in a DAVID GLMOUR style and efficient melodies and vocals, creating a slightly melancholic and atmospheric background.The next moment mid-70's GENESIS start to become the prominent source of inspiration, more symphonic orchestrations and strong use of synthesizers are always welcome and off to a hot start for grandiose and pompous instrumental textures.The album flows mainly in a low tempo with focus on soft instrumental lines, deep lyrical deliveries and twists between FLOYD-ian atmospheres and MARILLION-esque palettes.Very good partition of instrumental colors, piano, guitar and organ are mostly the leading forces with lovely Mellotron injections and some symphonic synthesizers thrown in.

Not topping the quality of the previous albums, but this is a very nice work of FLOYD-ian Neo Prog, Heinen is definitely a skillful composer, singer and musician, another item in his catalogue sounds like a full-band effort, containing atmospheric music with evident references to the 70's.Warmly recommended...3.5 stars.