SUNSET WADING

There seemed to be a connection between the bands BRAND X and NOVA in the past and we get members from both bands helping out John on his solo album here. Surprised to see Roger Glover add some synths on one track as well. Geoffrey Richardson adds viola and flute, Richard played with John when they were both part of CARAVAN's "For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night" lineup. By the way the music here sounds nothing like any of the bands i've mentioned. Haha. This is mature Canterbury music. How's that ? A lot of these tracks blend together and we hear water sounds quite often like we're by the lake. Oh ! Giles formerly of KING CRIMSON is on the kit.

"I Wait My Friend" opens with birds singing as the piano joins in and then some light percussion. Female vocals melodies join in before John's vocals take over before 2 minutes. "How Goes The Night ?" is a short intro of piano and drums for "Devoke Water" which is a cool track with a dark atmosphere. It ends with the sound of water and blends into "Birds And Small Furry Beasts". Piano, drums and flute join the water sounds. Check out the eerie violin before 2 minutes. "As Clouds Gather" opens with piano and bass as guitar comes in, flute follows. "Storm" opens with sounds that come and go. It's building and the drums are really prominant. Just an incredible piece of music here. It turns spacey to end it. "Ah Well, You Can Only Get Wet" is uptempo with guitar leading the way early.

"Dawn" opens with nature sounds. Violin before a minute. The tempo starts to pick up before 3 minutes with drums and a fuller sound. Piano joins in and there's so much going on. Great tune ! "Morning Song" has some good violin followed by spoken words and water sounds. "On The Moon" is a smooth sounding track. I like when the rain comes pouring down before 2 minutes. It blends into "Roundelay" as piano joins the rain. "Etude" has a good beat with fat bass lines. Violin joins in. The guitar / violin team rips it up before 2 minutes.Water sounds end it as it blends into "A Rhythmic Stroll" where piano joins the water. Synths, drums and violin on this one as well. "Sunset Wading" features some vocals and a beautiful soundscape. A perfect way to end it.

A charming record that is very well done.