HOMELAND

I have been a fan since the Storm Inside, mainly because my Prog preferences lie mainly in mood, atmosphere and perhaps even a little melancholia, which this crafty multi- instrumentalist (Bert Heinen) seems to have in spades. The previous "Summer In Eden" was a great recording but not the masterpiece I expected. From the first chords of "Homeland" , I knew I was in for a great ride. Certainly not flashy techno Prog (which I adore also) , Like Wendy explores a more angst ridden, emotionally charged environment , with sweeping melodies, fragile arrangements and simple effects. That's why it has so much charm and so little prettention, beautiful songs with georgeous melodies , moody solos and passionate singing. Totally original and perhaps even at times brilliant. Check out the agonizingly beautiful chorus of "Back to Earth" , the poignant 13 minute epic "Homeland" & the majestic undertone of "Flood". Might not be everyone's cup of tea but I can't help adoring this unique stuff. I asked myself how would the Like Wendy discography sound like in a band format and quickly realized that it would immediatly lose its personality by being surely over produced and too sanitized. This is an honest, emotional , "down tone" progressive recording that I often play in the fall when I want something completely reflective of the autumnal Canadian environment. 4 patrias