MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Jadis first album very much sets out their stall in terms of the good but by and large unexceptional neo-prog they create. Taking their name from a character in one of the books of the "Lion the witch and the wardrobe" series, the band share many influences, not to mention band members, with IQ. As with IQ, the music is largely derivative of their acknowledged influences, i.e. Genesis (especially Steve Hackett), Yes, Camel, Pink Floyd etc.

When this album was released, the band was a trio featuring the guitars and vocals of Gary Chandler, and the keyboards of Martin Orford. The rhythm section consisted of drummer Stephen Christey and "guest" bassist John Jowitt, who would go on to formalise his membership.

While the music is proficiently performed and highly enjoyable, it can be hard to distinguish one track from another. There are no killer melodies or distinguished solos, each track sounding like the next. "Wonderful world", "Sleepwalk", "The beginning and the end" etc. are all accomplished pieces of music, but all have the same sound and dimensions. I do not wish to dwell on the similarities too much though, as the album as a whole is well crafted and a fine listen. The title track offers some variety too, being softer and more acoustic than the majority of the album.

The keyboards can at times sound rather synthetic, despite the lush textures Orford creates with them. Chandler's guitar work, while clearly Hackett influenced and typical of the neo-prog sound, is skilful and melodic.

Lyrically, the songs tend towards fantasy themes, and positive vibes. The vocals are fair if rather bland, the band sensibly sticking to unchallenging vocal melodies.

While it has to be remembered that this was the band's first release, the musicians were not starting from scratch as such, having previously been members of other similarly styled outfits. Nevertheless, this is a praiseworthy first release, which establishes the template for future Jadis offerings.

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