BEYOND THESE SHORES

It was the description of Iona as a cross between Camel and Clannad that brought me to their shores. While I can't totally disagree with that assessment, I would qualify it by saying that it combines some of the more drawn out and languid aspects of Camel circa "Nude" with the tedious rock forays of Clannad circa "Sirius". In other words, Iona is like a mediocre rendition of the more substandard parts of the off peak albums of these two bands.

For the most part, melodies never take off, or head in an irritatingly dissonant direction that does not do justice to Joanna Hogg's impressive voice. So we are left with the more or less Christian lyrical themes which by themselves do not excite this listener, but which might have worked in a more dynamic musical context. A big exception to the rule is "Today" which features spirited pipes, superb percussion and an arresting ending. "Beachy Head" is a pretty ballad featuring sensuous sax, which reminds me of a more adventurous October Project.

This album is a disappointment to me as I was hoping for music that really set sail beyond these shores rather than staying moored and mired.