This is Oliver Wakeman's first solo effort with a full band as far as I know. He has written all music and lyrics and plays keyboard, piano and acoustic guitar on the album. The result lies in sort of a grey zone genre-wise. Symphonic Rock probably comes closest, but the music is flavored with many different elements, all woven together very well to form an atmospheric and entertaining journey. The overall mood is set by Oliver Wakeman's characteristic keyboard sound while Moon Kinnaird's strong voice gives the album an emotional depth.
The songs are all highly melodic and contain many twists and turns to keep them interesting. The lyrics are mostly personal and range from dealing with love, betrayal and life in general through issues with the environment and the music business.
Since I like all the songs and they really work together as a union it is hard to pull out highlights. But my personal favorite moments include the keyboard and guitar solo section of
Don't Come running, the sinister keyboard melody of
The Agent which brings back memories of The Hound of the Baskervilles, the great drive of
Walk Away and the soft emotional beginning to
I don't believe in angels. Also the closing song
Wall of Water brings out the sadness of the lyrics really well.
The overall mood of
In the movies is very well carried out and the result is a mid tempo ballad that stays in my mind after the album is over.
If You're Leaving is another ballad that is beautifully carried out. With a tough guitar solo and a rather heavy rythm section,
Calling for you is the hardest song on the album and packs a good punch.
My main problem with the album is that it lacks the strength to haunt my mind for an extended period. I guess I miss something truly spectacular. But overall this is a good and very pleasant album that I will recommend to fans of Oliver Wakeman's past works and also for any rock fans looking for something with a distinct atmosphere and an appealing relaxed vibe to it. Not necessarily an easy listen but give it time and it will grow.
Written by
Steen Saturday, March 4, 2006
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