GREY LADY DOWN - STAR-CROSSED - 2001

This is an album that "GLD" shouldn't have released. In July 98, they called it quit and made a last appearence at the London Astoria for a memorable farewell concert which will lead to the release of "The Time Of Our Lives". A great double live album.

Apparently, most "GLD" musicians were jobless a year later when Julian Hunt (guitar and founding member who left the band for a while) and Mark Westworth (keys and mellotron) luckily met at a party. Their chat unevitably ended about the fact of putting a new band together and they decided to talk back again with bandmates Sear Spear (bass) and Martin Wilson (vocals). There were no objection; they just needed a drummer and since Mark Robotham was not available, Martin Wright was contracted. But he will be replaced by Phil Millichamp for the final recordings of this album.

The name "Trinity" was chosen for the "new" band. After several rehearsals, it sounded clear that most of the songs were closely "GLD" related and the decison was taken to revert to the former name. "GLD" was born again ! And that's a good news.

Because this is a good album. All the "GLD" ingredients are present in "Star-Crossed". Long compositions, precise and efficient guitar breaks, powerful keyboards of course and the so delicate and passionate voice from Martin. I really like his vocal style. Some might argue that there is little variety brought with this album which in a sense is true; but their melodic neo-prog is always very pleasant to listen to. The highlights are the opening number "Fading Faith", the long "Fallen". The closing number, on a rather heavy edge stands out thanks to its brilliant guitar finale.

"GLD" 's music is easily accessible, catchy, melodic. So melodic..."Star-Crossed" might be a little lenghty but I could find a boring track; even "Sands Of Time" which is the shortest song from this album and featuring childish vocals is saved by a good guitar solo in the middle part followed by a pleasant flute break.

I like this band a bunch. My preferred works are "The Crime" and "Fear". Their live album "The Best Years..." is an excellent entry point in their discography. "Star-Crossed" being a very nice farewell. And I feel a bit sad to write this.

Two "GLD" members are active now in the band "Darwin"s Radio" (Mark and Sean). Mark is now even holding the keys for "IQ" after the sad departure of Martin Orford.

This album deserves a three star rating. Not as strong as their best albums but still pleasant for the ones who like beautiful melodies as well as keyboards-oriented music.
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