PAWN HEARTS

Art. That's what this album is all about. I didn't have any idea of what to expect when i listened to this album the very first time. Of course, it was at first a weird experience. I hadn't heard before a band with this ideas, ideas that push boundaries in a wonderful way. I think also that this album certainly isn't for everyone, but i suggest that all people should at least give it one shot, cause it's an amazing experience. Now onto the album. The first song "Lemmings" starts with calm guitar, and slowly the organs and effects help to build a tension atmosphere, then an amazing sax riff takes control of the song, and with that also comes the first vocals from Hammill. I know many people certainly don't like his vocals, but i think they fit wonderfully, it gives the album a unique pace. The song varies so much with noises, dissonant parts, and some dark vocals, it all helps to enhance an almost hypnotic mood. The second song "Man-Erg" starts with some beautiful piano lines. I really love that melody. Here Hammill starts singing in a mellowish style, it creates a floating like effect, very nice. Then comes a very dissonant part with sax and guitar(from guest Fripp) and disturbing vocals by Hammill. I find this section extremely effective. Then the song changes into a slow pace again to finish reprising the first verses (Hammill singing the dissonant part into this section it's a wonderful touch). It closes with a unison. Nice And now we enter into the last song, a huge epic " A plague of Lighthouse Keepers." I won't describe this song part to part because I feel it's a complete unique experience on it's own. All I can say it's that this song changed dramatically my view on music. Emotional parts, dissonant parts, experimentation are the key here. One of the most progressive works I have ever listened. Highly Recommended (not for the faint of heart).