ILLUSION

The band had to face enormous difficulties while recording this release. Lots of internal problem did have an impact on the delivery of their second album. Although this line-up won't have anything to do with the later "Renaissance", the sound is closer to the one we all know.

More than hints of the great classical / prog mood which will be the TM for "Renaissance" are to be noticed during the very good "Golden Thread".

One of the most sophisticated song from this album is "Mr. Pine". It starts as a medieval piece of music, but quickly turns into a jazzy mood. Truly symphonic keys and melodic vocals add some nice feeling. But all these fade out and fade in, give the impression that there are several songs into this one. The band should have thought of better liaisons to make it more united.

This is being taken in charge during the next song "Face Of Yesterday". Jane Elf can finally show all of her vocal talents in this very good number. During the two first albums of the band, she was mainly confined in a subordinate role which is a pity because her voice is brilliant and holds a lot a emotion in her timber. She should have had a stronger role IMO.

And even if the "epic" is somewhat loose as well and half improvised (and jazzy.), "Renaissance" was better inspired than on their debut. We aren't still flirting with great music but the way is paved for better things to come.

Three stars.