BATTLEMENT

It's probably the culmination of early Genesis music with more emphasis on classical music root. Take for example the opening track "Loafer Jack" it reminds me to the Gabriel's vocal quality with classical music through the sound of pan pipe like those used by Syrinx in Moraz - Syrinx collaborative work "Coexistence" (see my review of this album at this site). Of course this album would favor those who love early Genesis (Gabriel era) music as the style is similar. "Ice with Dwale" also reminds me to the music of Genesis with different textures especially on the use of flute / pan pipe and the way acoustic guitar is played as rhythm section.

Track 3 "Intruders and The Punishment" bring the music into a more complex composition with excellent keyboard work and mellotron-like sounds. The keyboard work takes a step further than those which was played by Tony Banks in Genesis. The vocal quality is rather similar to Cyrus of CITIZEN CAIN than Peter Gabriel even though both are similar. The keyboard solo is stunning. "Beyond The Bugle" has a very powerful opening with acoustic guitar fills combined with keyboard and flute-work. One might think that this is what Genesis would sound like if Gabriel did not quit the band after "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway". This track is very close with Genesis music even though it's much simpler than Genesis composition.

The intro part of "Battlement" reminds me to the music of Mike Oldfield especially on its long sustain keyboard solo at opening. Keyboard takes the largest contribution for this track. Vocal only appear at the ending part of the track. The other two tracks follow the style of previous tracks :"Midsummer Day" and "Zartlicher Abschied".

Overall, this is a good album in the vein of early Genesis music. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW