What does it sound like?:

After the long conceptual pieces showcased in Thick As A Brick and A Passion Play, Ian Anderson returns to short form songs on this Steven Wilson remix of the Tull’s 1974 album. As ever, Wilson seems to strip away layers of muddiness from the original, leaving a cleaner, airier sound. Many would think of this line-up of the band as the definitive one, and indeed they are in fine form, with Martin Barre’s guitar work particularly excelling.

What does it all *mean*?

The second cd features the usual slew of outtakes and bonus tracks, including three previously unreleased songs. Most fascinatingly though, it includes the orchestral pieces written for the soundtrack of the planned but aborted film which was to be part of the original concept for a multi-faceted project.

Goes well with…

The accompanying two dvds have the usual 5.1 mixes by Wilson, which live up to the high standard he has set on previous releases. An excellent 80 page book, plus some promo footage from the time, round off the whole package.

Might suit people who like…

If you’re a Tull fan you will want to finally hear the long ago consigned » Continue Reading.

What does it sound like?:

A mixture of old and new from the current seven piece line-up, recorded on last year’s US tour. A slightly odd mix at first listen which takes a little while to get attuned to – needs four or five listens to ‘get it’. Sadly only 41 minutes worth, but the band sound in fine form – Mel Collins in particular is at the top of his game here.

What does it all *mean*?

Good to hear a few pieces that have rarely been performed live (and one never previously), and it’s nice to hear rejuvenated takes on old favourites such as Sailors Tale and Starless.

Goes well with…

Probably not for the uninitiated, but if you’re a fan this is a must have memento of the three drummer line-up – and of course Fripp’s guitar work is as impeccable and challenging as ever.

Might suit people who like…

Whets the appetite for the UK dates later in the year !

What does it sound like?:

By now most of us will have formed their own view on this final ‘new’ offering, intended as a tribute to the late Rick Wright and compiled in the main from leftovers from the Division Bell sessions. A little disappointing on first listen, this is an album that improves with repeated listening as some familiar themes begin to emerge – a keyboard motif a la Shine On, guitar work reminiscent of Dogs, a hint of One of These Days. The closing Louder Than Words works better when heard as the concluding part of the album rather than as a stand alone piece.

What does it all *mean*?

The Dvd disc features a number of other bits and pieces, of which the rockier sound of Nervana fares best, the rest being fairly disposable – which is maybe why they were left unused.

Goes well with…

Is this up there with the classic Floyd albums of the 70’s – no, but it’s not a bad way to bid farewell.

Might suit people who like…

Probably not an album you’ll keep returning to as you would with DSOTM or WYWH, but still worth adding to the collection » Continue Reading.

What does it sound like?:

Natalie Prass possesses a fragile, feminine voice. On this, her debut, it is swept along by Schmilsson strings and topped by ripe, cherry horns. Over nine songs, she delicately and gracefully picks the bones of a failed relationship. It is a delicious, featherlight confection, cleverly disguising the splintering in her heart. Matthew E. White, her old school chum, provides the label, Spacebomb, the orchestra, the brass and the producer. I doubt it is entirely altruism as the retro smokey-soul sound suits the house style precisely. The quality of the writing and performance should easily repay his investment. It’s a pity the album was shelved for two years whilst White promoted his own Big Inner, yet poor Natalie is left with a window of only a few months until he releases his follow up. In the meantime, please don’t overlook this little gem. It takes a confident, precise performer to pitch such emotional vulnerability against a swelling thirty-six piece orchestra. I am sure by the year end, there will be few albums so coherent, so luscious and so effective in impact.

What does it all *mean*?

If proof were needed, here it is; well constructed » Continue Reading.