NOVELLA

Novella is perhaps the best, and most progressive, album by the band Renaissance. It is also the first of several albums that represent the peak era from the band. This 1977 release is the first to not sound obviously dated, like Ashes Are Burning and other early releases. It also showed an improvement in songwriting; away from the simpler mellow folkish songs, and more into a slightly stronger, slightly darker mode.

With only 5 songs on the album, it is obvious that they tend to be long. The opening song, "Can You Hear Me", clocks in at over 13 minutes. This opus features orchestra, choir, and music song that varies through numerous sections.

As usual, the beautiful singing of Annie Haslam and intricate acoustic guitar of Michael Dunford are highlights. This album and Song For All Seasons are the best examples from the band.