antoniodeste

I must confess that after the extraordinary exploits of "Big Chair" and "Seeds Of Love," I sensed it would be quite difficult to go any further. Then the separation of the two happened, and that was the end of it. I listened to "Raoul" much later, partly due to another album, "Elemental," which was frankly forgettable, except for one (!) track. I heard the title track of the album ("Raoul & The Kings Of Spain") on the radio, and hearing Orzabal howling the U in Raoul was somewhat striking, though certainly not exhilarating. However, I bought the CD just recently because I thought it was right to form a more balanced opinion, and I didn't find it bad. It has convincing moments of lyricism and well-crafted instrumental parts. Deep vocals and well-developed themes, but they are NOT the TFF of years gone by. It's as if something has broken. The same can be said for the album released a couple of years ago. Pleasant songs, but lacking depth. I then read a suggestion for "Tomcats screaming outside": a respectable album and also well-produced; but in that one, there’s a tough, semi-recognizable Orzabal, with arrangements that reflect the hard sounds of the new rock bands. There is little to no trace of the "romanticism" of the early days or the Mediterranean warmth in Orzabal. The review, Pier_Paolo, is well done and written with expertise (I knew nothing about Orzabal's genealogical origins!) and commendable in style. Wishing you a joyful continuation of the holiday festivities!

Hello and thank you, Jim; the same goes for you. If possible, even more. See ya leita....alligheita.... :D

A cascade of comments, huh?! Well, a sign that "Remain In Light" deserved it. And perhaps that’s exactly the case. I suppose that along with "My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts," it represents a so-called cornerstone in one of the pivotal turns of late-century rock. No complaints about "77" or "Fear Of Music," notable works, but this one is truly something else. Byrne gained "ethnic" awareness and deepened the possible electronic layers in sound manipulation. Eno, Belew, Hassell contributed their part, and what resulted was indeed the possible beginning of a new era. I resonate a lot with Blackcrow's comment. I completely agree on the historical significance and impact of this work. Maria Elena emphasized it (as is her characteristic) in an original and personal way. I understand that it may be unpalatable for some, but that's her style, and it should be respected as such.

@boh ! : already !

@MisterNo: it feels like reading things written by my own past....... For a time, I ventured with a "country" trio around the area with a repertoire that, of course, included a lot of CSN&Y; "The Lee Shore," which I performed only with Emilio, was particularly difficult to execute and put us to the test each time, I must say. The vocal interplay is not the simplest, and keeping the basic arpeggio in E minor 7 is no longer a walk in the park (as it should be). However, in the end, the heartfelt and enthusiastic applause from the audience (those 4 or 5 times we felt capable of performing it) made it all worthwhile. Nearly thirty years have passed since those moments, but returning to these melodies has an indescribable power over me. Knowing that you are also part of this "supra-material" magic makes me feel less alone. Peace. May love be with you, brother.

Mistero, I knew about the magic that binds you to this piece, but here you’ve clarified even better the meaning of this bond. And "Wind on Water"? Does it reach your heart and spirit? Merry Christmas to you, my friend... all along the Lee Shore...

I could trivially get away with saying that if the dt are like this, it's because they are......American. Note: Attention: the names I mentioned in the last post do NOT typically navigate the vast sea of rock. They primarily come from jazz or para-jazz backgrounds with evident inclinations towards experimentation and sound manipulation. Ok?! Still, happy holidays, Adriano and Luca!

@Tarkus: you were right to clarify this because it is indeed the case; however, it is well known that poor Paul was addicted to heroin and had tried several times to quit. I wouldn’t want to make any inappropriate assumptions as a layman in medical matters, but there could be obvious connections between his heart attack and his addiction. I take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

....is immortal.... . The rusted chains of prison Moon are shattered by the sun...... Jim, it's been a while since I read you. Wishing you a bright Merry Christmas! Happy holidays and see you soon..... .

@ Manticore: I understand the meaning of what you’re saying and ... I still can’t argue with you... what can I say? Points of view... Sorry for the delay (not due to my will), but since today is the 25th, I take the opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and, of course, happy holidays!