MIRAGE

Camels second album should be in every rock collection. Latimer & Co produced a classic album here, which I guess partly thanks to the sleeve artwork would never be forgotten. But, there's nothing wrong the music, infact compared to their their worthy, though slightly flawed debut, Mirage is an excellent work. 'Freefall' opens the album. Its upbeat, quirky, full of twists and turns and spiralling guitar licks. My only objection is Andy Latimers decision to sing over it. Camel always knew their strength was in instrumental music, and thats what they should have focussed on in these early years. Nevertheless, Latimers singing is sensibly kept to a minimum and the song drives head long with energy and confidence. 'Supertwister' follows with its changing time signatures and its flute flurries. A lovely piece of music, which leaves you in restfull mood before 'Nimrodel' A few prog traditions come into play here. The marching sequence in 'Procession' is reminiscent of 'The battle of Epping Forest' by Genesis. Then when 'White Rider' comes in, I'm reminded of Pink Floyd. I may be painting a picture of plaigerism here, but take my word for it, you can tell they are not ripping anyone off. This is distinctly Camel and no one else. This is confirmed when Latimers clarinet plays some very haunting melancholic melodies.

Both 'Earthrise' and 'Lady Fantasy' are great pieces of music, although I've always felt that they could have done something a little more adventerous and less repetitive in the middle section of 'Earthrise' Latimers guitar playing and Pete Bardens keyboards are often at the centre of Camels musical world and wishing no disrespect to Andy Ward and Doug Ferguson, their contribution tends to be ignored. I can safely say that they worked hard to make this excellent album.