SCHEHERAZADE AND OTHER STORIES

Renaissance delivered what was arguably their most ambitious, some might say pompous or pretentious album here. The set consists of just four pieces, of which the title suite is the main feature.

Side one has three tracks. The opening "Trip to the fair" is a dark tale of strange happenings at the fairground. Annie Haslam's performance here is not one of her best, but John Tout provides some fine keyboards, collecting his first writing credit for the group in the process. Ironically, the later version by Michael Dunford's Renaissance brings out the menacing nature of the song far more effectively.

"The vultures fly high" is the shortest track on the album, and is something of a throwaway piece of light rock. "Ocean Gypsy" completes the first side with what is for me the best track on the album. This delightful dreamy ballad has emotive lyrics and a supreme melody. Haslam has certainly regained her form for what stands as one of Renaissance finest pieces. Incidentally, Blackmore's Night also delivered an excellent interpretation of this song.

"Song of Scheherazade" which occupies the whole of side two, is of course a concept piece in nine sections. While it clearly among the most adventurous pieces of work they have produced, the sections come across as separate tracks at times, breaking the continuity and making the piece seem fragmented. The story is based around a Sultan who is so distraught at his wife's unfaithfulness that he takes a new virgin each night, then has her executed the next day. Scheherazade is the virgin who manages to survive intact through a cunning plan.

The piece, which is heavily orchestrated, is well composed and performed, but for me it lacks real substance. I do not wish to be over critical however, it is still undoubtedly a notable work in the Renaissance songbook. Perhaps though, their ambitions were just too great this time.

In all, a well performed album with much to commend it, but for me not the best by this band.

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