Rick Wakeman

This is not, despite its deceptive packaging, a greatest-hits compilation. Instead, it's a collection of new studio recordings of some of Wakeman's earliest and best solo material. It was recorded in 1993 with a four-piece American band that included a second keyboardist. The performances are quite good, done in a strong and sometimes heavy neo-prog style, and Wakeman seems energized by his surroundings. "Merlin" here has somehow acquired new lyrics (which, it must be said, aren't very good), and the band has fun with the honky tonk sections of the piece. The full-length version of "Journey" here (done with lyrics but minus the original narration) is much preferable to Wakeman's other studio re-recording of the piece on Rick Wakeman's Greatest Hits. Overall, quite enjoyable and satisfying. [The CD was also released with a bonus track, "Umberto II."] ~ Stephen Raiteri, All Music Guide