Search - Lake :: Definitive Collection

3.5 stars - a solid retrospective

Justin Gaines | Northern Virginia | 09/20/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"The 2-disc Definitive Collection is a better than average look at German progressive AOR band Lake. The band made a minor splash in the late 70's with their light and poppy prog rock style that was a meeting point between Toto and Yes. They also sounded quite similar to Ambrosia. It's a bit too soft rock for my tastes, but the musicianship is solid and the songs definitely grow on you.



The first disc features the band's better known songs, most of which come from the albums Lake (1976), Lake II (78), Paradise Island (79) and Hot Day (81). It's a good representation of the band's sound, but you can't help but wish for a few songs from the band's mid 80's releases.



The second disc is an EP-length collection of bonus tracks, including live recordings and material from founder Alex Conti's solo career. I'd have preferred the second disc to cover the later Lake albums, but this is still a cool addition.



The sound quality of this collection is pretty decent, and while it doesn't say for sure whether the songs have been digitally remastered, you get the impression they were at least cleaned up a bit.



The song selection, sound quality, and price point make the 2-disc Definitive Collection an ideal starting point for people looking to hear what Lake's sound was all about, or those who want a decent overview of the band's career without buying the individual albums."

Great recording

Justin Gaines | 09/05/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"excellent rhythm and a constant pulse. Good musicians"