|
Title |
Label/Cat No. |
Year |
Length |
|
Holyground Records HG137 |
2009 |
78.44 |
|
Tracklist: Lineup: Additional Members: REVIEW In the mid to late 70's Francis Lickerish was one of driving forces behind one of Britains most eclectic bands 'The Enid'. He played guitar on the bands first four studio albums, as well as appearing on a couple of live releases, and then left the music scene altogether. Now I'm delighted to say he's back with a brand new band, and what's more he's brought another former Enid member, keyboardist William Gilmore, along with him for this exciting new project, Secret Green. Unsuprisingly there is much here musically that reminds one of the Enid. The classic Enid work 'In The Region of the Summer Stars' is referenced several times; 'On Merlins Ground' (4.30) features a brief passage from 'Under the Summer Stars' (2.10) while Camlann (4.55) contains what is essentially a reworking of 'The Last Day, The Flood' ... and there is more besides that makes one remember what the Enid were as well as think of what they might have been had things worked out differently. Coupled with the obvious references in the music it is worth also noting that current members of The Enid (Robert John Godfrey, Jason Ducker and Dave Storey) all make guest appearacnes on this album! But this work is much much more than a retrospective, or a rehash of past glories. The inclusion of Hilary Palmer on vocals takes the project into altogether new areas, adding to the mix something that contains a dash of folk and a dash of medieval music, along the lines of Blackmore's Night perhaps. At first I was a little unsure as to whether this was what I wanted to hear, as the music really is excellent in it's own right, but I have to say that Hilary's voice really is superb and I quickly warmed to the fact that her clear tones added something to the sound that really made this new project quite unique. Secret Green certainly has an identity of it's own that sets it apart from other bands. Additionally there are also elements in the music that have what I can best describe as having a strong Christmas flavour. The joyful exuberance in 'Echoing Green' for example is spiritually uplifting as well as beautifully orchestrated, and certainly contains more than a touch of seasonal warmth. But there is probably a good reason for this ..... In terms of content the band's web site describes the album as being about the much looked for return of the sleeping king. The web site states 'Who is the King? Some might like to say it is Arthur, and if that pleases you, all well and good'. And here perhaps is the explanation for my observation, after all what is Christmas if not a celebration of the coming of the King! The songs featured on this album often have straightforward melodies which you can easily carry in your head, but the beauty comes in the intricate musical variations that are woven around these themes. Francis' distinct style of guitar playing is a pleasure to listen to, whether of the electric or acoustic variety, and the keyboard playing along with the level of orchestration throughout this work is faultless. Bass and percussion also provide solid underpinning to the music and nothing here seems out of place. To try and cover the album on a track by track basis would be impossible, there is so much here that really has to be heard as words just cannot to the music the justice it deserves. Suffice it to say that 'To Wake the King' certainly marks a triumphal return to form for Francis Lickerish after so long an absence. He has pulled together a team of top notch musicians who seem to know how to make music that should appeal to a very broad fan base. The music seems to embody a true sense of Englishness, in every good sense, and it has an uplifting quality that honestly makes you feel glad to be alive! Packaging too is first class, and a lot of trouble has been clearly been taken with the album artwork. The accompanying booklet has also been beautifully put together and in addition to the usual photographs and song lyrics some of the songs are presented with a short narrative piece which helps set the scene - Francis always was known for his story telling on stage, and it's nice to see this carried over to the album booklet! The attention to detail throughout all adds up to a real quality product. As you have probably gathered by now this is, in my opinion, a really wonderful album and one which deserves to be heard by a wider audience than it will probably reach. I love everything about this work and genuinely cannot think of any negative points at all! So, do yourself a favour, visit the band's web site, check out the samples, buy yourself a copy and spread the word ... the time may indeed have come 'To wake the King!'. Simon 23rd August 2009 |
