Customer Reviews

Retro 2

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is one of Rick's best records and one of the best prog records ever. Wakey made Retro 2 with the same gung-ho enthusiasm and creativity he had in his 20's. He used the same collection of analog instruments from the previous record but Retro 2 is a different experience. There's more guitar, more instrumental tracks, and the recording sounds a little more visceral. Two things that really stand out are the fantastic sounding Hammond organ on several tracks and Dave Colquhoun's impressive guitar playing.

Retro 2 is a real album experience that takes you to different places. "Expect The Unexpected" is a very unexpected bluesy number with funky clavinet and slide guitar. "Beyond the Void" is a spacey prog epic with terrific bass playing from Lee Pomeroy and one of the coolest Mellotron choir parts I've heard. "Robert The Robot" demonstrates the silly side of Rick as the lyrics are a grumpy old rant about automated phone systems. "Tigger The Bounce" is a piano piece with multi-tracked pianos. My favorite is "Standing Room Only" which I consider one of the top rock instrumentals of all time.

Retro 2 was made for people who aren't satisfied with the way rock albums sound today. It was mastered with dynamics in mind, not loudness. Also Rick and Erik put a lot of effort into experimenting in the studio to make a unique sounding recording. I think Retro 2 deserves a Grammy or two!

I haven't listened to Mr. Wakeman since Rhapsodies came out. I bought this CD because a few of the titles made me curious. It is a treat. Best thing I've heard since King Aurthur... If you want a fun album that you'll come back to and listen too time & again, check this one out. The song samples I've heard don't quite do it justice.

I would not have bought it the Wakeman name was enogh to compulse me into purchasing the album i loved all the tracks on the album i do have agood collection of Wakeman with the British rock ensemble & his forays with the best band in the world according to me YES just love them Jon Anderson my favourite singer thanks to Amazon for adding to my Rick Wakeman collection <kevinfmclean@bigpond.com>