The last "Amazing" Blondel album
K. A. Levine | Stow, MA, USA | 12/28/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This was the last of three recordings made for Island while John David Gladwin was in the group. He did most of the songwriting and carried the lion's share of the vocals during that period. Like the previous two, Evensong and Fantasia Lindum, the accompaniment and especially Galdwin's vocals render the "ancient pop" sound as unmistakably Blondel, but "England" is no retread. This time, the group explores three "pastoral settings" for voices, flute, guitar and orchestra. "Seascape" and "Landscape" are lengthier highly lyrical pieces that bathe the listener in all that is described, a treat for all the senses. My favourite is the subsequent "Afterglow", a transformational account of the passing of daylight. If that weren't enough, the vocal techniques used in this song need to be commented upon by one who knows the proper terminology - they are lilting, uplifting, and much more. The quality falls off for the remaining tracks which constituted side 2 of the original LP. The only piece that really stands out is "Sweet Sorrow" which is akin to "Afterglow" but not quite as good. The other cuts are competent but ultimately bring the rating down to four stars. The departure of Galdwin led to the paring down in the group's style and substance which survived four albums. The last four records made by the remaining duo are not available on CD but, for those who like Beatles influenced soft rock with the softer elements of Bad Company thrown in, "Mulgrave Street", "Inspiration", and "Live in Japan" are well worth seeking out on LP. Just don't expect anything as amazing as England."
Landscapes and seascapes - the art of musical bewilderment
Michel Laverdière atma@dsuper.net | Montréal (Québec) | 09/08/1998
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Listening to Amazing Blondel's England is like musical time traveling. I remember the very first time I listened to this recording, it was a cultural shock. The poetry of the strings underlining the crafty sounds of flutes, mandolins, lutes, harpsichord, guitars and the unique voices of the bards... Was I still in the 20th Century? Cheaper than a plane ticket indeed and really worth the time to dive into a colourful universe of inner images. And very British indeed... Be ready for a real musical experience. Enchantment guaranteed."
Wonderfully medieval! Makes one desire to dance the Pavane.
Michel Laverdière atma@dsuper.net | 04/04/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love this CD! It is so easy on the ears yet casts a spell which makes the listener go back and give it another go.I have all of Amazing blondel's albums but I was wondering when "Restoration", the CD they have just recently finished, will be available. Please...if anyone out there knows how to get "Restoration" it will "Restore" my growing love for the Amazing Blondel! They are truly Amazing!"
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1