SONGS FROM THE LIONS CAGE

In the mid-90s, there was endless talk about Arena, the upcoming new band centered around keyboardist Clive Nolan and drummer Mick Pointer. What was going through their minds? The difference in skill level between the two musicians was enormous. Nolan was known for his skilled playing, having built a solid reputation with bands like Pendragon, Shadowland, and Strangers On A Train. Pointer, on the other hand, had only one notable entry on his CV: he had provided the drums for "Script For A Jester's Tear," Marillion's debut album. Additionally, he could be heard on an EP and a few singles from the band. After that, the man had a career as a kitchen salesman for over ten years.

That chemistry is a strange thing is evident from the fact that the two have been each other's musical partners for over a quarter of a century now and are still driving the band Arena forward, despite numerous lineup changes. Interestingly, Arena was initially intended as a one time project. That turned out quite differently.

Characteristic of the band's sound is the infectious combination of playful keyboard work and heavy drums, which places Arena in the realm of intense neo-prog. Guitar, bass, and vocals complete the picture, and although the lineup has changed frequently, the band's sound has never drastically altered. It's safe to say that Arena secured a lifelong credit with the release of "Songs From The Lions Cage" on February 6, 1995.

I still vividly remember my first listen. The Netherlands was gripped by the flooding of the major rivers, and while NOS was reporting on the dramatic events, the postman delivered a square package from England. Against my usual habit, the package remained unopened, and the TV stayed on. When the broadcast ended, I positioned myself between the speakers and witnessed an overwhelming sonic flood.

Since then, I always associate "Songs From The Lions Cage" with the turmoil in southern and central Netherlands at that time. For instance, the intense riffs of guitar and bass in the intro of the overwhelming Out Of The Wilderness absolutely evoke images of people lugging sandbags. The strong keyboard playing and powerful guitar extravaganza, in my view, represent the power of the water, as does the bombastic rhythm section. Although these associations are purely my own, I didn't miss the numerous Biblical references in the lyrics. Unfortunately, I can't say much meaningful about them, so you'll have to make do with my flood story.

Valley Of The Kings features an enormous keyboard solo. In this, I see the vast expanses of flooded land, while the Mellotron can be seen as the invincibility of mankind. The extensive harmonies in Jericho symbolize, to me, the solidarity of the people, and the beautiful Pink Floyd-esque guitar solo in Midas Vision at least represents the good feeling that comes with it. The closing track, Solomon, deserves a place among the best epics of all time. Besides everyone involved, guitarist Keith More and vocalist John Carson are primarily responsible for this. More plays brilliantly, especially during the metal section in the finale and the euphoric closing melody. It's all so full of emotion. The images from the TV broadcast deeply moved me, and I hear it all reflected in the way Carson sings. He sounds desperate, pleading, and above all, very combative.

In addition to these five band songs, the album features four short pieces, each appearing in the even numbered positions. These parts are called Crying For Help and vary with each iteration. They range from acoustic guitar to harpsichord, from New Age with a telephone to a delightful prog track where a beautiful guitar solo by Steve Rothery stirs the emotions.

"Songs From The Lions Cage" is a powerful album that you never tire of discussing. Not now, not ever!

Originally posted on www.progenrock.com