Description
Rick Wakemans third solo album is among his best, as he employs his vast array of keyboards to their full extent, musically describing the characters pertaining to the days of King Arthurs reign. With orchestra and choir included, although a little less prevalent than on Journey, he musically addresses the importance and distinguishing characteristics of each figure through the use of multiple synthesizers and accompanying instruments. Lady of the Lake is given a mystical, enchanted feel, perpetrated by a more subtle use of piano and synthesizer, while the battle of Sir Lancelot and the Black Knight is made up of a barrage of feuding keyboard runs and staccato riffs, musically recounting the intensity of the duel. But its on Merlin the Magician where Wakeman truly shines, as the whimsy and peculiarity of this fabled figure is wonderfully conjured up through the frenzy of the synthesizer. As one of Wakemans most famous pieces, it is here that his astounding musicianship is laid out for all to hear, a marvelous bisque of keyboard artistry. The albums entirety is a sensational execution of Wakemans adroitness, and with vocals from Ashley Holt and Gary Pickford Hopkins, it still stands along with Journey to the Center of the Earth and The Six Wives of Henry VIII as one of his most astute pieces. ~ Mike DeGagne
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.