

This album took me directly to the places only imagined in books. When Journey was released I was 16 years old and ripe for any adventure. Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Matt Parish on 31st October 2019 The tracks reflect the circus theme and whilst the circus is not my favourite medium of entertainment, this excellent album would, no doubt, spark some interest. Great keyboard work goes without saying but the performance by the rest of the band is very tight. Reminiscent of many of Rick's rock albums in style, the performance is exemplary throughout. My favorite track - The Three Wives, a 16+ minute medly that's so rich!Ĭirque Surreal by Keith Andrews on 27th April 2020 Īn album that had generally passed me by, but due to the recent reissue by Demon Music Group on red vinyl (2019) that has been remedied. I actually have a mint vinyl copy, which I treasure.

If you come across a copy, buy it, you will thank me later.

To me, this is a hidden gem amongst his vast catalogue. What a great capture of the voices Rick was using in the early to mid 80s. Wow, it's 2020 and I gain even more respect for this album over the years, it's from a 1985 performance. Live at Hammersmith by Bruce Treadwell on 19th June 2020 Sit back relax and leave this world and go to another awesome musical experience. I was instantly transported back to the seventies and again another world upon hearing the first few bars, the use of older analogue and newer digital keyboards increased the tone and depth of sound allowing a greater flexibility within the composition of the tracks, in true Wakeman style this album is a triumph for all involved. The Red Planet by Andrew Knightley on 20th June 2020

Valles Marineris might be the best piece Rick has ever composed. I love how the beautiful and gentle South Pole precedes the insane closing number. In Arsia Mons, Cooney plays an excellent Gilmour-esque acoustic guitar solo over an awesome electric piano sound.
#TIME TRAKS MERLIN PROJECT FULL#
The tunes are chock full of catchy riffs, tricky rhythms, and dramatic themes. The arrangements are incredibly complex and full of surprises. Red Planet needs to be actively listened to in its entirety. The guitar, bass, drum, and keyboard sounds are all killer. The production is so rich, warm, and dynamic. I think it's the best sounding album from Rick. Red Planet is everything I hoped it would be and more. The Red Planet by George R on 20th June 2020 Just waiting now for the CD release later this month (June 2020), and can't wait to see that special edition packaging! I first came across his playing on the Yes ARW live album last year, and like all Southpaw players, he really plays superbly. Love this sort of thing in Rick's Music! Very impressed with all the other musicians, especially Lee Pomeroy's bass work. It reminds me occasionally of the style used in the opening track of "White Rock", where the keyboard solo goes off at a tangent and you wonder where this is going and he finishes the run of notes and you find youself amazed that he could even think of a run of notes like that let alone play it! Then it changes pace (as it should with the Prog genre) and you get a superb finale. My favourite track so far (it may change with further listenings) is "Pavonis Mons", where the soloing is amazing. No vocals this time, and Rick sure makes up for that with his virtuoso keyboard performances. What can I say about the "Red Planet"? What a Beautiful Recording! It has been worth the wait! Congratulations on a great album, Rick! As with the last album done with the English Rock Ensemble, superb sound and excellent musicianship from all participants. The Red Planet by Alan Morgan on 20th June 2020 The flexibility of new technology is never wasted on Rick and this album truly reflects this, sit back relax and let it take you on a true Arthurian adventure. The blend of old and new is seamless and is how it should have appeared in the first place. I was lucky enough to be one of the few people at the playback event for this album, it captivated me from the first few bars and still does. The Myths & Legends of King Arthur & The Knights of the Round Table 2016 by Andrew Knightley on 8th June 2021 And I enjoy the added Election Special track (even though it is yet another example of musicians being treated abysmally!). Great to hear the smooth yet strong voice of Chrissie Hammond (ex Cheetah, I discovered! If you're an Aussie, that means something). Some classic Rick sounds, together with some ballads and a bit of rock. In my opinion it is one his best from the many of his 90s releases. I don't know why Rick is so down on this album. Fields of Green '97 by Criag on 18th May 2022
