BELIEVE

Although I have stated yesterday I would only do one review, already today I feel the urge to share my thoughts on the latest Pendragon release. So what, my actions are not as expected! And that is directly the bridge to my first point of the review: Do not expect a second "Masquerade Ouverture" or "Not of This World". Do not ever expect a copy of a previous album; expect progression. And Believe has given progression. Pendragon shifts to some new influences.

I always admired the openess of Nick Barrett on his influences (only a deaf artists is not influenced by other music), but sometimes felt it was so obvious that it lacked the Pendragon touch. Believe is certainly Pendragon and all influences match perfectly the Pendragon style. That alone makes it in my opinion a very good and mature album.

Although "The Wishing Well" is supposed to be an 21 minute epic song, I rather think that the album contains 9 songs well mixed to each other. The intro song Believe gives a good idea of what is coming. A queste for purity. The rocky "No place for the Innocent" is not my favorite, but fits well in the total picture. "Wisdom of Solomon" is the perfect summary of the album. New influences, acoustic pure guitar solo's and many changes in speed and sphere.

My highlight of the album, must be track 5 to 8, ending with the real Pendragon song "Learning Curve". The last song "The Edge of the World" is more a cry for understanding and believe made by the heart, in stead of a well overthought song. It is nice and full of emotion, but it hasn't reached my heart yet.

In conclusion, a very good Pendragon album.