POMPEII

Triumvirat went through some personell changes for this one. Like 'Old Loves' i enjoy most of it, but it's lack of balance still annoy me. Half of that album and half of this one is my preferred concentrate of this period of this band, while the rest foreshadows their bored out demise in their last two albums too much. Considering the fall of this band after this release, this one can be seen as a valediction of sorts. There are still decent and very pleasant hooks in the 'easier' tracks, but the opening track and 'Vesuvius' are among the bands finest stuff overall. Great drumming from Curt Cress on here as well, both smooth and forceful, just like his days with Passport.

Overall, Triumvirat's "Pompeii" is a recommended album, but not necessarily essential. The obvious ELP influences are still present (as with most of their albums), so ELP fans should like this one too.