"You'll probably all know that Rick's big break before joining Yes was spending a year with the Strawbs. He made one full studio album and one live album whilst a member and, I think, contributed to Dave Cousin's solo album. To hear that Rick was making a new album with Dave after many years was great news, and the finished product does not disappoint. Dave Cousin's voice is unique - and I can certainly understand that some people don't like it. But believe me, the songs on this album will send shivers down your spine, they are that good. And Rick is certainly on form. Just listen to the keyboard solo that occupies the last minute of the opening track "The Young Pretender". To me this is the best Rick has sounded for many years. If you've not been sure about buying this album, please do: I know you'll like it!"

"I just received this DVD in the mail 2 days ago and have watched it 3 times already. The video and audio quality are exceptional, and the band is extremely tight. There are a couple of camera miscues, and a few times that Damien Wilson's vocals could have been a little louder in the mix, but otherwise it is pretty flawless. The highlights to me are the opener "Lancelot"(which you don't see performed very often),"Merlin"(with the incredible duelling keyboards with rick's son Adam), and the closer "Starship Trooper". A must have for all fans!!!"

"When people are asked which is their favourite Rick Wakeman album, there are some understandably predictable answers such as Six Wives, King Arthur and Journey. However, as good as they all undoubtedly are, the Classical Variations album is certainly a contender for me as the best.
Once again, Rick displays his undoubted talent as an imaginative arranger of other people's material. The notion of an album of classical material could prove challenging to some ears, and yet the selection draws on a number of well known standards, that those of us of a certain age, are all familiar with.
Whilst showing due deference to the material, Rick interprets each composition in his own distinctive style. My personal favourite is his interpretation of 'Pavane by Faure', which is simply sublime. Other high points include an imaginative interpretation of 'Dvorak's New World Symphony' and 'Berceuse by Faure', which some of you may remember as the theme to Listen with Mother.
A hidden gem definitely worth discovering."

"This album is a masterpiece. Rick has chosen 14 of his favourite hymns, and what good choices. One normally associates such tunes with an air of simplicity, however Rick works his magic well and weaves his subtle intricacies throughout. Piano is the main instrument and this is a perfect addition to the "Christmas Variations" album. A timeless selection including "Morning has Broken" which can really be claimed as "Rick’s own" piece."

"Maybe it is not a Wakeman's classic but it's surely a classical Wakeman, which I like. Reminds me sometimes of some of his better piano passages from the seventies. Comparing this to his other piano works it sounds fresh with some moments of passion. I believe that this world needs good piano albums but on the other hand is such a release predictable and reliable. Thanks God there's something around to rely on. Everyone enjoying Wakeman playing grand piano should get one copy. That says it all. My fave melody here is Seasons of change, light as a feather, with passages full of energy and virtuosity. In no way do I find this one boring. I'd even tend to agree with President Records calling this "his finest piano work to date"."

"If you would like to take a journey to Italy while relaxing in your own home just sit back and listen to this breath-taking masterpiece by Rick and Mario Fasciano. The melodies are simply wonderful, Mario's vocals which are sung in Italian are truly magnificent and the whole theme of this work is reminiscent of the type of music that you would hear if you were walking in the streets of Milan or Genoa. All of the tracks are soothing and highly interesting at the same time but my absolute favourite is the instrumental "Romance Napoli." If you would like something different by Rick which will take your mind away to far off and romantic places I highly recommend this CD to you."

"A nice piece of happy instrumental music, not more, not less. Partly interesting, partly illustrating, the ideal CD to accompany a Sunday walk or a drive through your favourite landscapes during colder seasons. My favourite is "Dancing on Snowflakes", this little beauty. I'm afraid this one won't sell like it's better relative album buts it's worth listening though."