PHOTOS OF GHOSTS

I snapped up PFM's Photos of Ghosts when it was released, given that they were one of the first groups signed to ELP's Manticore label. I assumed I would be getting some good music and was not disappointed.

The songs on here are all good enough, but on this album at least the band never really transcends their influences. They sound like Crimson here and ELP there, with the occasional touch of the Mothers thrown in. But they never establish a real identity of their own. Perhaps part of the problem is that they are singing English lyrics phonetically. I have heard the true Italian albums are better, but based on what I've heard on Photos I've not been motivated to seek those out. So I'll admit that Photos of Ghosts is my only direct experience with PFM's music.

So I add it all up -- good musicianship, somewhat lack of originality -- and I rate this a three, a good but by no means essential album. Nonetheless will be enjoyed by fans of early-70's prog.