I was sent this to review a digital copy, so hadn’t seen the booklet when I started listening to it. Also, I hadn’t undertaken any research so didn’t know who was involved and was treating this as a totally new band. It was only afterwards that I realised that this was a joint project of Pete Trewavas (Marillion) and Eric Blackwood (Crimson) who then brought in various friends and guests (including the rest of Marillion, which is the first time they have all appeared on an album which doesn’t have their name on the front). I was pleased that I had no idea who was involved as it means that my view of the album is untainted, and this atmospheric spacey Floyd-type prog is right up my street.
There are times when the drums are just too basic for my taste, but that is really just a minor knock against what is a very fine album. Both Pete and Eric provide lead vocals, and while they may not be standout singers they suit the music just fine and it really works. The production is top quality, and this is an album that definitely benefits from being played at night, looking out at the stars with a glass of fine malt at hand. If I had the choice of playing this or the latest Marillion album then this wins hands down every time.
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