GREY LADY DOWN - FEAR - 1997

The third album of this band has seen some dramatic personnel changes. Louis David on the keys and Julian Hunt on guitar (for family reasons) have left the band and Mark Westworth and Steve Anderson took respectively the follow-up.

This won't affect the "GLD" sound. It is still governed by lush keyboards and brilliant vocal parts. I have mentioned this already, but it is a real pleasure to listen to the soft, expressive and passionate Martin Wilson. The only problem is probably that "GLD" seems to repeat themselves here but I still like these melodious songs with lots of synths, convincing rhythm and at times crying guitar. "Roller Coaster" being of good illustration.

Some "Trespass-esque" intro for "A Modern Day Cavalier". This is probably the most delicate song from this band. Much more symphonic than neo-prog. A magnificent melody; almost too harmonious to be true. Martin is so communicative, so convincing, so emotional. A very simple and basic song after all; but sometimes it is just enough to create this little extra. A very touching number.

The "Genesis" mood was also to be noticed during the weirdy titled but beautiful "And Finally". The opening number is strongly keyboard-oriented. But I'm sure that these link either irritates or seduces. I belong to the seduced ones.

"Sliding" is another long piece (over ten minutes) that needs some time to really quick off. It sounds a bit chaotic, which is not really a habbit for the band. Again, what speaks me more here is the great and melodious chorus. I am totally charmed. These guys have an incredible feeling to write catchy songs. But their simplicity might be rejected by purists (or complex minds). Steve Anderson will also introduce some very good guitar accents, while the same orgy of keys (seriously Banks oriented again) are leading the whole somptuously. This is a highlight and one of the best "GLD" song.

Another great one will close this very good album. It is the end of the trilogy started on their debut effort. "Paper Chains" is the final part of the epic suite "The Crime". The first two episodes were the highlights on the "The Crime". This final part is somewhat weaker. It will get a better exposure in their excellent live album "The Times Of Our Lives" during which the band will play it for the very first time in its integrity.

With "Fear", the band released another very pleasant album. Very much "Genesis" like. IMHHO, it is better than their second "Forces". Four stars.
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