WONDERWORLD

I think the rate beneath 3 stars for this record is unfair, as it is by no meaning a weak album. Despite some silly filler songs, and Heep's decay at the time, this album has arguably Uriah Heep's best side A in all of their discography. Being the last album by the 'classic lineup, this record was made still back in 74, far away from any conquest or abominog thing. Hensley's creative wonderworld was still at its best.

'Wonderworld', the song itself, is a masterpiece, a Heep's giant. Byron sings softly like an angel whispering, sliding through dynamic lyrics, a perfect Hensley's songwriting, in great style and superb melodic feeling. The hammond intro is also mind-blowing. 5/5

'Suicidal Man' is a more rocking track, with a heavy Box's riff. Byron sings in a darkened atmosphere, somewhat, this which caracterize the whole album, including the weird cover. Not an Easy Livin', but still a worthy song. 4/5

'The Shadows and the Wind' is a must-have. The song opens with a gentle, catchy hammond organ, Byron singing gently and firmly, increasing the sound to a rocking chorus. In the end, excellent heep's classic falsetto choir, closing the song in great style. 5/5

'So Tired' is an excellent rocking piece (the album alternating between a heavier track and a more gently one), with precise drumming and catchy rhythm, Byron singing in a more rock n' roll style. The songwriting is somewhat silly, but fits perfectly. The outro by 1:30 with a soft chorus, is the most beautiful and catchy thing you'll ever hear. 5/5

'The Easy Road' is Hensley's tour de force as a songwriter, better than 'Rain' from Magician's Birthday, a lovely ballad which will catch even the hardest heart. 5/5

Starting the so bad famous B-side of this record, comes 'Something or Nothing', an interesting piece with very good harmony vocals, an excellent songwriting and a catchy chorus, not a bad song at all, a piece worthy of the first side. 4/5

'I Wont' Mind' starts with a rhythmic play by Thain and Kerslake. The guitar riff is very good, but should have had a better use. Byron sings well, although the songwriting is desinteresting. He still shines with his voice in some lines. 3/5

'We got we' is an unpredictable song. The songwriting is silly and dull, although well sang in harmony vocals. Not an interesting song at all. 2/5

'Dreams' starts with great and mind-blowing keys, an exotic songwriting which only Byron could interpretate so good, and some of the best basslines ever made by Thain, as his last effort before leaving Uriah Heep and this world. 4/5. If not the best possible, at least an worthy closing for this album. Rest in peace, Gary.

Result: 5 + 4 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 4 + 3 + 2 + 4= 37/9 = 4 stars