SUNBURST FINISH

"Sunburst Finish" was one of two studio albums that Bill Nelson and BE BOP DELUXE released in 1976. Most Prog fans prefer this record and the one that follows "Modern Music" to the 1975 record "Futurama" but I have to disagree. I do feel that the two '76 albums are more mature but there's something about that Glam style I prefer to "Sunburst Finish" which is more Pop Rock. The guitar isn't as flashy here, for me the songs aren't as memorable although I wish I could say that about "Ships In The Night" a minor hit of theirs that gets stuck in my head. Not a fan.

The production isn't as good here either but one thing they did do here was try different things like bringing in some orchestral stuff along with guest sax on one track. The guitar solos tend to be near the end of the songs on this one and this seems to be more consistent than "Futurama", but I am not connecting with this record at all. I'm actually surprised at this after enjoying a lot of "Futurama".

One track that works for me is "Sleep That Burns" with that galloping start and chorus. "Crystal Gazing" is another good one where they slow it down which is a nice change. The closer "Blazing Apostles" does little for me along with "Beauty Secrets", I mean come on. Love the guitar in "Heavenly Homes", pretty sure my house number will be 63. The other track that was pretty good was "Life In The Air Age" with percussion galore to start as guitar joins in. I like when it settles with vocals.

I am scratching my head over the love for this one, but keep in mind I did not know this band at all back in the day so there's no nostalgia for me it's just the music which is worth 3 stars.