TALES FROM THE LUSH ATTIC

While I like this album, there is no denying two obvious things: 1. They are wearing their influences (Genesis in particular, Yes to a lesser extent, and even 80's new wave) very prominently on their sleeve.

2. The production is atrocious.

2 can be explained by the fact they only had 4 days to record the whole album (in contrast, the single bonus track was recorded over 5 days). 1 can be explained by listening to Marillions first album. Still, if you listen to Pallas' first album, they don't sound like they are worshipping Genesis, so it was a trend all the 2nd wave bands participated in.

Having said all that, I still enjoy the music. I happen to have a soft spot for bands that do the Genesis tribute thing well. And on this album, IQ is such a band. The opening epic I find delightful for it's energy and enthusiasm, as well as for it's derivativeness (even having a Gates Of Delerium creshendo near the end). The next two tracks have a manic, almost punk energy to them while utilizing a number of Genesis cliches to great effect. The Enemy Smacks is the song that departs somewhat from the plagerisms and sees IQ starting to define their own sound which they would bring out for the next album, The Wake.

So overall, not the most original of offerings, but it has enough youthful enthusiasm and energy to delight even a seasoned and cynical proghead (well, maybe not, but it worked for me at least). Just be prepaired for sub par sound quality and derivative compositions.