AN OUTCAST OF THE ISLANDS

My introduction to Colin Bass was via that disastrous CAMEL release "I Can See Your House From Here". Ditto for Kit Watkins of HAPPY THE MAN fame. Both contributors were filed away as of little - if any - interest in the future.

Later, I've seen footage of CAMEL with Mr Bass on bass and his lukewarm, almost indifferent attitude didn't really impress. Sure, he had some very big shoes to fill in CAMEL after Doug Ferguson's great riffs and Richard Sinclair's groovy Canterbury approach. Instead, he chose to decline the challenge and remain mediocre, not unlike a hired hand. Basically he suited Latimer's obsession with bittersweet concept themes that border on sorrow and misery without breaking, or maintaining musical grounds.

Having read some recent reviews of this album left me somewhat intrigues, so I've decided to check it out - after all. Firstly, I agree that Crossover is an appropriate genre for it as it's pleasant enough to be listed, but one that's lacking any "grunt" associated with Prog basics.

One can hear some bass for a change and the vocals are undoubtedly nice. Latimer - who's always been a great guitar player - is continuing his Gilmour inspired elegance of post- Bardens CAMEL and this comes off nicely. Flutes, orchestral arrangements add a nice touch, evoking comparisons with Latimer's CAMEL's better moments.

This album is far from great, but quite reasonable in Crossover territory. Has it made me more interested in Colin Bass? Probably not, but in all fairness, I could put it on repeat without being irritated by it. These days it's almost a plus...!

A 3.5 rating may be appropriate - unless you have plenty of more inspired works - like I have - in your collection to listen to. Excellent it isn't, only pleasant enough for a lazy Sunday afternoon with friends by the pool, in place of absolute commercial crap.

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