TALES FROM THE LUSH ATTIC

Whilst Neo-Prog may not be everyone's favourite Prog sub-genre, there are a few stand-out examples that appeared during the first half of the 80's that endeavoured to keep the Prog torch aflame - I.Q.'s 'Tales From The Lush Attic' being one such statement. First hitting the shelves early in 1983 on a private label by the name of 'The Major Record Company' , the album featured 5 tracks of expectant progressive technicality. The opening piece is an epic titled 'The Last Human Gateway' - it clocks in at just over 19 minutes (according to my stop- watch - no CD lover here....). The album offers a styling of music that many have grown to love - the highly imaginative ideals of a band whose name 'Genesis' meant more to their taste than mere 'top-forty trash' at this time in their lives. Moogs and Mellotrons aplenty, the guys in this band put their money where their mouth was when it comes to instrumental proficiency. All musical members of this band shine - fantastic Keyboards ( yeah, Tony Banks is a great influence....), Guitaring (yeah, Steve Hackett is a great influence), vocals (yeah, Peter Gabriel is a great influence). Drummer Paul Cook does recall Phil Collins or maybe even Rush's Neil Peart, and Bassist Tim Esau blends Mike Rutherford's melodicism with Chris Squire's ego. All-in-all, an amazing blend of talent. I struggle to find any weak moment here; odd-time sigs, natural changes of tempo, way too many highlights to mention - at least to my ears, this is a 5- star album. I have held it in high regard since I acquired it 15 years ago, and recently decided to give it another whirl. MAGNIFICENT !!! Open your mind and enjoy. 5 Stars.