Camel
The Single Factor

What or who does the title of this album refer to? Obviously, the single factor can only be A. Latimer, the only musician left from the original lineup of Camel. In fact, even the unforgettable drummer A. Ward has definitively left his friend Andy, after the worthwhile concept album "Nude," due to serious personal reasons.

"The Single Factor (Deram)" was released on May 7, 1982, and indeed presents Latimer alone at the complete 'helm' of the group, although he is accompanied by a surprising lineup of instrumentalists, including a welcome surprise which I will reveal further down. The musicians are: C. Rainbow (Vocals, Backing Vocals), D. Paton (Bass, Fretless Bass, Vocals, Backing Vocals), D. Mattacks, S. Phillips (Drums), A. Phillips (Rickenbacker 12-string, Grand Piano, Poly-Moog, Organ), and others. Surely, this is the album that possesses the least creativity and the 'weakest' compositions of the entire Camel discography for various reasons. The 'magical' progressive structure is almost completely gone in favor of a music and a format that is substantially Pop-Rock songs. The CD consists of twelve tracks totaling about fifty-two minutes. However, there are still valid and slightly progressive episodes such as the instrumentals "Selva" and "Sasquatch." In the latter piece, the friend P. Bardens appears as a surprise on the Organ and Mini-Moog. The title of this track is a humorous reference to... You will have to discover this for yourselves! Also, "Heroes" sung by Paton is not to be dismissed, especially because it is capable, despite the simple song format, of moving the listener, thanks also to a beautiful, meaningful text. Imagine of mine are you just a myth? Aiming for the stars and a need to exist. Singing your life to its final bar, Staging all the scenes to avoid who you are...
"Manic" instead, is a song sung by Latimer with a vaguely Dark tone, with lyrics that, in my opinion, refer to Ward. The brief instrumental "End Peace" that closes the album with Latimer's 'tear-jerking' guitar is moving. The mediocre album cover depicting Latimer's face is obtained from thirty-seven vertical lines.

In conclusion, a work that is very far from the atmospheres of the '70s albums, and that only occasionally manages to 'distance' itself from the typical Pop-Rock song structure characteristic of the '80s. Despite the esteem and respect I have for Andrew's Art and great musical abilities, my rating cannot be high. Album rating: 3 out of 5 (microsestars). This is just a song to help you through the night just like a lullaby. And if you're not strong and everything ain't right, this is my lullaby. Music & Lyrics: Andy Latimer.