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I'm not too sure about the title
of this disc, the only solo album(so far) by keyboardist Martin
Orford of long-lasting melodic rockers IQ. Sounds like an
educational catagory, or the title of a textbook or beginner's
music book. Maybe that's the concept. Muscicians hate to be
labeled, so he labeled it himself before someone else did.
So it's, well....Classical music and popular songs. There
are nice classical-styled instrumentals as well as vocal songs.
I understand he hates the term 'Neo-prog'. Can't say I blame
him. However, I hope the title of this album doesn't cause
potential enjoyers from thinking this is an album of covers
or something like that. But catagories and labels aside, what
you'll hear here is some stunning music, beating the pants
off some of his other projects' albums(IQ and Jadis). 'Classical
Music...' was released almost the same time as IQ's excellent
'Seventh House' album(early 2001) and was kinda ignored. But
this album acts as an excellent counterpart to Seventh House.
His guests include members of both bands as well as a vocal
performance by John Wetton(Asia/King Crimson) who he had also
worked with. I believe Orford has become one of my favorite
keyboard players. His style is unique, melodic and tasteful.
The album takes you through a number of different styles and
formats, not just 'classical music' or 'popular songs'. The
album is quite varied. I look forward to his next non-IQ or
Jadis project.
Here's the trax:
FIELD OF FALLEN ANGELS -
An IQ-styled opening track with
some nice flute and synth textures with a slight Celtic or
folk flavor.
A PART OF ME -
An anthemic rock track that features
strong vocals by John Wetton and soaring guitar leads.
QUILMES -
Very tasteful piano solo. I'm sure
Orford could deliver an all-piano album which would not bore
me. His piano style is way more interesting than, say, Rick
Wakeman. More!
THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES-
Orford also handles vocals on a
few tracks, and he doesn't sound too unlike former IQ vocalist
Paul Menel. This is the ballad of the album.
FUSION -
An instrumental in a more 70's progressive
rock vein, with harpsicord and driving guitar.
FINAL SOLUTION -
In contrast, this one is more in
a 90's progressive rock vein but just don't call it 'neo-prog'.
THE PICNIC -
And yeah, he handles guitar too,
what a clever cat he is. A short, pleasant Anthony Phillipsesque
acoustic ditty.
THE OVERLOAD - Amore atmospheric
track featuring IQ's Peter Nichols on vocals, so naturally
it's a more dark and ethereal affair similar to some of the
bits from 'Subterranea'.
TATRAS -
The closest thing here to 'classical
music', a fine composition complete with piano, flute and
orchestral synths.
EVENSONG -
Another atmospheric instrumental
reminding me of early Steve Hackett solo material like 'Defector'
and 'Spectral Mornings'. This track leaves you wanting more.
I believe good music is something
we digest and get nutrients from. We eat music. Though junk
food music is fine, sometimes you just want to savor something
delicious. Something good for you. This is one such album.
Any fans of IQ or Jadis or progressive rock in general, or
even 'neo-prog', should find enough here to enjoy. I hope
Martin Orford finds time to create another solo album sometime.
Till then, this will endure repeat listenings.
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