NOT OF THIS WORLD

Sometimes, you hear something and know that's it's A class, the masterpiece and you're gonna give it 5 star rating, no matter the cost. And you'll defend this decision, until someone (with really good arguments, facts and big in size, strong in stubbornness) prove something that can change my mind. And I'm afraid that even after all this martyrdom, result will be that I'll still love Not of This World.

Wonderful cover art, in fact, this was first Pendragon album I get myself to, so I can't compare. Even now, this is everything I need (for now), no need to explore more, because on this album, there are Ideas, hidden thing which will appear after numerous listening, one after another. As I know now, these covers are typical for Pend. (isn't this name something from Arthur legend ? I'm not so skilled in it - yes, it is, father of King Arthur), but this one is somewhat important for me. My dear girlfriend was kissed by muse one night and drawn me and her in style of this picture, on a meadow like scenery, sitting and looking to the sun. Funny thing is that most of music I listen regularly is connected with certain game, during which I listen this music. When listening to NoTW, I imagine myself playing San Andreas (Las Venturas, hotel with pirate ship, trying to take down as much pedestrians as possible, while shooting on helicopters with M16. There is natural cover, something like fence from brick wall, which separates sidewalk from my position. Well, bullets and Pendragon, what a combination). Weird, but true (I mean strange, but true, as is sung in lyrics)

In my 130 reviews history, I had to admit few times for certain thing. That I was listening one track over and over again, until I was satisfied by it. And that would be All Over Now part. Even I am not used to like this kind of keyboards, Arena and Pendragon are exceptions, there I like it. Probably some kind of connection here. So let's start with If I Were the Wind. Sounds is typical for neo prog, I'm not afraid to call it archetypal for this genre, with one exception, acoustic guitar here. Vocals fits here perfectly, Nick Barrett is doing a lot and is giving a lot of emotions in it. And to this fantasy story is more then good suited, I can't imagine this music without him. Similar style of singing is even in Arena music, where singers changes regularly. Oh, when talking about Arena, I have to mention Clive Nolan. He's skilled keyboardist of modern age, I suppose he has his hands (four h's in a row) in a lot of Pendragon/Arena music.

5(+) for a work of true art, which is pleasure to listen, have all ingredients which I admire in this kind of prog and, which is the biggest surprise, everything works perfectly. And oh, of course, my girl. She felt instantly in love with this one, same as myself.