FORCES

I must admit that "GLD" holds a special place in my prog ears. I have the tendancy to like them a lot. Their great melodic neo-prog is rather poignant. Much of this is due to Martin wilson, the lead vocalist. He has such a brilliant singing style, full of emotion, sweet but expressive. And he is not trying to emulate some great singer from the past like it is often the case in this genre. He is one of my fave neo-prog singer.

Their first album was really a great discovery for me. I loved it at first sight. Their melodic approach, the extensive use of lush keyboards are really my cup of tea. And "GLD" reproduces this here as well. In this respect, one of the longest compositions "Battlefields Of Counterpane" is a perfect example. Of course it is "Genesis" oriented. But so are a lot of neo-prog bands, right ? But "GLD" has a little extra which really kicks me.

If you would like to spend an hour or so with friendly and just beautiful music (like I do as I write to finalize this review), it is very easy : give "Forces" a spin. You'll have some true "Genesis" moments when listening to "Without A Trace", a very emotional one with "The Cold Stage" while you might skip "I Believe" which is the weakest track of this album.

And finally, the epic "The Flyer". Over thirteen of passionate and convincing music.

These were very good days for the band. They played in a packed "Marquee Club" before being asked to perform at the "Astoria" (both in London). This album sold very well (they were the best selling band of their Cyclops label which is always interesting in terms of promotional means). The album and the band did receive several awards. So, 1995 ended on a really positive note and a bright future for the band.

And I think it was just normal with such two great albums in two years time. Even if this album is a good one, I preferred "The Crime" (their first album). Three stars.