EDGE OF TWILIGHT

Before I purchased this compilation I asked myself: Is it worth having a compilation while there are nothing like "previously unreleased" tracks in the track list and when I have all complete albums of the band? That's why I did not decide right away and took my sometime to think. At the end, I purchased it with only one chief reason: the mark "Extensive Sleeve Note" on the sticker posted at the CD jewel. It's not a compelling reason, actually, as I can get tons of information through the net on wide variety of views about the band music or the band history. But I don't know, for me, having something handy while listening to the music and sipping a cup of capuccino is a very enjoyable moment. And when I unsealed the CD, I loved it at first sight: there were 6 pages black and white photos of the band and comprehensive liner notes by GG die hard fan: Dan Barrett.

Actually, nothing special about the CD package but for me personally, the sleeve notes serve its purpose excellently, ie. First for its fans base: To stimulate the spirit of the band despite it has been disbanded long time ago and there is very little possibility that they will do some reunion concert. Second, for those who are new to the band would have a sufficient introduction about the band while listening to the music. And for the latter I am in the opinion that those who are new to the band will have a great companion to the purchase of the discs.

Musically, all tracks selection represent the band's best songs from the period of 1970 - 1974 with the exception of "In a Glass House" album. I don't know why there is nothing from this album was selected for this compilation. There are many best tracks from the band actually. But, for newbie I think this compilation represents almost all variety of GG styles. Even from the opening track "The Advent of Panurge" the listener is posed with a blend of music combining rock, jazz and avant-garde with a great vocal line. Many friends of mine complained that the band's music is hard to digest and I always suggest to give a chance to listen to this compilation for couple of spins, minimum 5 spins. If they can pass the 5 spins then they can continue purchasing individual album. It's worked fine with this simple theorem.

It's better to have a collection of each individual album as I find that there is no such thing called as "bad" album of Gentle Giant, even the last studio album "Civilian". The beauty of having the individual album is that whenever we play the CD we get the full stream of the album's music in a series of tracks as originally designed by the band - so it flows automatically into the mind of the listener. We then know what's next after this track. It's like reading a novel from beginning to end. However, having listened to this double CD compilation for many times, I feel like listening to another album of Gentle Giant. Highly recommended! Keep on progging!

Yours progressively,

GW - Indonesia.

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