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Gardening Club, The: The Riddle
 Last year I reviewed the self-titled album of The
Gardening Club, originally released in 1983. The project is led by Martin
Springett, a very talented singer/songwriter/musician. After a long time between
records The Gardening Club is back with their second album titled The
Riddle. Joining Springett (vocals, acoustic guitar) are Sean Drabitt
(fretless bass), Wayne Kozak (soprano saxophone), James MacPherson (drums and
synth solos) and Norm MacPherson (electric and slide guitar solos, gut string
guitar, mandolin, bassoon, keys).
Like the first disc, this is an excellent slice of pastoral pop prog.
It’s quite quirky and at first seems fairly simple but once you dig in there is
quite a lot going on and the music is actually quite quirky. The album begins
with the Beatles-like “The Riddle Overture” with its electric guitar ala George
Harrison. The sound is lush with lots of tasty keys and guitar, with the slide
work giving off a psychedelic vibe. “Whirled Away” is an upbeat mostly acoustic
tune that is super catchy, especially Springett’s superb lead vocals. “Seven
Year Old Poet” is slightly darker and more moody featuring subtle changes in
direction and great slide guitar. The guitar work throughout the disc, both
acoustic and electric, is a definite high point. A super catchy guitar hook
denotes “Blues For Richard” while “Pauline” features some gorgeous saxophone.
“Leaving Home” is another catchy number with a breezy melody and Springett’s
warm lead vocals.
Overall, The Riddle is an excellent choice for those into the
quieter side of progressive rock and comes highly recommended. Please check out
The Gardening Club and Springett’s solo albums by clicking on the link below.
Track Listing:
1. The Riddle Overture
2. Whirled
Away
3. Seven Year Old Poet
4. Blues For Richard
5. Leaving
Home
6. Pauline
7. Notes On The Affair
8. The Original Sleep
9.
Tears At The Matinee
10. Waltz
11. The Riddle
12. Entracte
13.
Overture Surprise
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FROM GONZO
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