IN A MOMENT OF COMPLETE MADNESS

Entering the 90's,Galahad were trying to escape from the underground scene.Their debut was even released in Japan through Pony Canyon with insert lyrics and a bio in Japanese.In January 92' they release the superb archive recordings ''Other Crimes and Misdemeanours'' from their early phase,a nice example of the raw British early neo progressive movement, and manage to tour in Europe in August/September of the same year.Work did not stop here.In May 1993 they release their 1989 cassette ''In a moment of madness'' on CD format under the title ''In A Moment Of Complete Madness'' with three extra tracks from the early period.

The tracks from the original cassette (1-5) are typical examples of an accesible type of Neo Prog with definite MARILLION and RUSH influences,like the catchy opener,which also features some grandiose guitars and keys around the middle.''Second life'' is exactly how RUSH sounded in late-70's,an energetic heavy rocker with nice breaks.''Parade'' is on par with early MARILLION,though less dark and impressive,but ''Earth rhythm'' is a quite bad groove with cheap synth work and far from the band's spirit.''Lady messiah'' isn't much better despite its length,decent Neo Prog with some cliche breaks,saved by the good finale.

The three extra tracks will save this album from total mediocrity.The short and acoustic ''Painted Lady'' shows how sensational Stuart Nicholson's voice is.''Ghost of Durtal'' is an unreleased epic and it is quite a surprise how this magnificent song escaped from a previous official recording.Excellent modern Symphonic Prog with hints from both MARILLION- era's,alternating atmospheres,shifting guitar work and superb keys all the way with a splendind ending.''Welcome to Paradise'' is even better,fantastic prog with classical influences and unique performance by Nicholson on vocals and Kark Garrett on church organ.Simply a masterpiece!

''In A Moment Of Complete Madness'' is a bit uneven,the more dynamic first tracks will please only fans of Neo Prog or Pop/Prog,but the three remaining extra numbers are absolutely fascinating modern Symphonic rock,which anyone should listen to.Not essential,but certainly recommended,especially for the last two grand compositions.