RENAISSANCE

I was realy attracted by the cover of this record: I had to have this one on vinyl. This was no mistake: this is far more obscure in it's sound then the later Scheherazade and other records in that period. This early prog does still sound a bit psychedelic, while it's also a blend of classical music and rock. The sound is fresh and the bandmembers seemed to be full of ideas. The typical sound of this record is already created mostly with the bassguitar and piano. The bass however is far more interesting on this record then on the later episode of Renaissance. Especially the bassguitarist is giving some psychedelic mysterious sound.

The songs sound natural and creative and free in form. The vocal parts do mainly sound songlike and sometimes even a bit folklike, while the instrumental parts realy sound progressive or psychedelic. There is also a funky song on the second side.

I've doubted a long time about giving this record four or five stars, but since I've a much better sterioset at home I'm sure: this is a masterpiece. This sound is full of emotion and can be really beautifull or mysterious. The man and woman vocals are great and are as good IMO as Anne Haslam. Just one of my favourite records and without doubt the best Renaissance album.