AT THE SOUND OF THE BELL

The second album of Pavlov's Dog is considered their finest masterpiece by many, but in my opinion that is not as clear as water. In fact, comparatively to their first release "Pampered Menial", there is some evolution in their progressive playing showed by longer instrumental passages, particularly in the beginning of the album. It was added also some chorus passages. But, in my view, it has not so many memorable songs like the debut album, not saying however that they are bad songs. No, they are good songs, but in general not at same level as those from the previous work.

The structure is different from the previous album. This is less dependent in Hard Rock's guitar riffs (the guitar here is mainly solo work and some acoustic like in the melancholic Standing Here With You or in Valkerie) and much more sustained in piano background. In fact, good piano arrangements are constant on the album. There is also much more blues and jazz inspiration.

The first track, Did You See Him Cry, undoubtedly the highest highlight, shows a very progressive introduction with several instrumental arrangements and transitions leading to a memorable melody with a great instrumental bridge. The sad Standing Here With You and specially Valkerie are also good tracks, with ELTON JOHN's inspired piano. From these two, the last has strange epic organ riff with speedy acoustic guitars and good melody with chorus in the refrain, upgrading the emotional tension. Try To Hang On is a funny song with blues bass as well as the track She Breaks Like a Morning Sky, with its jazzy saxes. Gold Nuggets, explores very well the emotional side of the unique voice of David Surkamp's (which you can hate or adore) and the last song, Early Morning One gives a decent ending to the record!

This is a nice album. Comparatively to the first, it has the best song which is the first, Did You See Him Cry, and some as good like Valkerie, or Early Morning On, but mainly the songs, beyond nice, not as catchy or emotional as the first record songs.

My Rate: 6,5/10