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From the Vault...
09/01/2002
#801 |
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info
Rick Wakeman & Tony Fernandez
"Zodiaque"
© Relativity/President Rec
Year of Release: 1998
Rating:
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track listing
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Sagittarius
Capricorn
Gemini
Cancer
Pisces
Aquarius
Aries
Libra
Leo
Virgo
Taurus
Scorpio
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Rick Wakeman & Tony Fernandez related sites:
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Rick Wakeman & Tony Fernandez
"Zodiaque"
Rick Wakeman IS A GOD...
Many may remember Rick Wakeman as the founding keyboardist for the rock
band Yes, but what most people do not know, is that his solo output is truly
incredible. His love of music is in the category of Classical, and with many
releases in this genre, he could easily be ranked with the likes of Mozart,
Bach, and Beethoven, etc. As many Classical albums that he has, his interest
in solo albums have also been in genres such as Rock and New Age. From Wakeman's
New Age Collection, is the 1988 release with Zodique, an album he
recorded with drummer Tony Fernandez, whom has collaborated on many of Wakeman's
many solo releases. The 12 songs contained on Zodiaque is a look at
astrology, and how Wakeman interprets each month's sign.
The opening track, "Sagittarius," is a great mix of New Age and
Progressive Rock. Full of energy, this tune is a great way to open an album.
Another energetic tune in this same style is "Aquarius," a song that
could easily fit a soundtrack dealing with Medieval Times. "Aries"
has just enough New Age mixed with the Progressive Rock keyboards heard in
many of Wakeman's years with Yes. "Taurus" is another example of
New Age energy, and great for an opening theme song for sporting events, or
a particular radio show.
"Capricorn" is simply beautiful, consisting of mood New Age music,
similar to his Aspirant Trilogy Series, likewise the styles of Mannheim
Steamroller, Yanni, and Enigma. Another great tune in this same style, is
"Cancer" -- the piano is just beautiful and relaxing. And we can say
the same for "Libra," another great relaxing composition.
"Gemini" is an upbeat jazzy number, and you can't help but snapping
your fingers along with Wakeman's keyboard main verses. World Music best
describes "Leo," as it mixes New Age with African beats, yet it still
fits the New Age style. "Virgo" has a relaxing calliope atmosphere.
Great mood music continues with "Pisces" -- this one you can actually
imagine watching the fish swim in easy fashion. The album's closing song,
"Scorpio" has beautiful piano, and very relaxing mood music.
Zodiaque has the great ingredients of New Age Music. Featuring
great romantic mood music, a little bit of Progressive Rock, and just a touch
of jazz and calliope makes this album very enjoyable and highly recommended.
This release is all instrumental, and showcases Rick Wakeman's incredible
keyboard works. His music can easily match the likes of other New Age talent,
such as Mannheim Steamroller (which was
recently reviewed), and Yanni. In the U.S., his music is very hard to find.
He is most popular in England, being a fellow Britain. Why his music
is not recognized as popular here in the U.S. is beyond me. His solo work
is just outstanding, and the only way to purchase his his work is through
Ebay. His solo releases has grown past 50 albums, since his departure from
Yes. And collecting his work is worth the investment.
Check out the Rick Wakeman Community Centre website, at
http://www.rwcc.com
.
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