A must for all music lovers.
Jeffrey Dery | Toronto, On, Canada | 01/10/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When i heard that Jim was releasing another solo album, i was expecting something along the line of "Instrumental Encounters". I would have been happy with that.
Then i heard the samples on Progrock.com and i thought "Not was i was expecting at all but it sounds impressive".
I have not stopped listening to the CD sinse i got it.
It took about 2 seconds for my jaw to drop to the floor the first time i listend to it. It is an amazing album.
Jim seemed to have let it all out when he wrote these songs. I knew Jim was a great song writter but i did not know he could go to so many different styles and still make it work and fit together. After all these years, Jim managed to raise one more notch in my esteem.
You get all the moods and nuences we are used to from Jim on this record plus absolutely amazing, incredible, out of this world solos
Pay close to Carden Isle, a piano improvisation. This one alone would blow your mind.
The lyrics are very descriptive and we can really picture the state of mind Jim is in when he's in the great Canadian outdoors. Beautiful images indeed.
Jim's voice is very good on all the songs. I think it mixes very well with Corrina Tofani's voice, especially on Lost Along the Way. I really like the melody on this one. It sticks with you for a long time.
Saying that i'm pleased with this CD is the understatement of the century. I truly think that this is one of the best CD i have ever heard. I'm not saying that just because it is from Jim Gilmour, i'd say the same if it was from anyone else. This is truly a masterpiece. Did i make my point ?
The only thing i can say is : The fresh air does you good Jim, don't give up camping."
Great Escape - A Progressive Rock Keyboard Masterpiece
Derrick Lee | Canada | 01/10/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jim Gilmour is the lead keyboard player in the Canadian rock band SAGA.
Jim's latest adventure is a musical tour de force of 11 songs inspired by his many camping experiences in the vast Canadian wilderness. The "Great Escape" is an explosion of progressive keyboard wizardry that's going to blow your mind. Each track on the album is an epic symphony of imagination and sound that chronicles the pleasures and rewards of exploring the great outdoors.
After listening to this highly anticipated release, the title makes sense. The "Great Escape" is pure escapism with angelic vocals woven through unlimited instrumental moods and melodies. It's a compelling demonstration of electronic orchestration gone wild - with colourful and captivating elements of jazz, folk and pop music added to the mix.
Jim has taken his keyboard craft to a whole new level of performance on this ambitious work of art.
The "Great Escape" is essential listening for all fans of quality music with artistic merit."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1