Shadowland - Ring Of Roses (1992) {1994, Japan 1st Press}

Anyone in those parts who does not recognise the name Clive Nolan is clearly an imposter or is just stepping out in their journey through this great genre. Clive is a prog workaholic, who writes, produces, and plays keyboards for great bands such as Arena, Pendragon, Nolan and Wakeman, etc. While his commitment to each of these bands is total, Shadowland is his baby. Here, Clive steps out from behind the keyboards to assume the role of front man and vocalist. He is joined in the band by Threshold guitarist Karl Groom, Arena bassist Ian Salmon, and Threshold drummer Nick Harradence. Released in 1992 to a favourable reaction, "Ring of Roses" was the band's debut album.

Even if we take into account the fine pedigree of Clive and Karl, "Ring of roses" is a quite astonishing first release. Naturally, the music is rooted in neo prog, but at the same time it is totally unique. The balance of lead guitar and keyboards is spot on, the lead guitar sound being of the type commonly reffered to as David Gilmour like. Clive plays all the keyboard parts but for obvious reasons he brought in a second keyboard player when the band performed live. Nolan handles also the vocals himself and he definitely has a very warm and expressive voice, which fits perfectly to the band's melodic style.

When Karl Groom and Clive Nolan get together, there is clear a magic at work which inspires them to create magnificent albums. Among the best neo prog releases of the 90's, "Ring of Roses" certainly deserves some spins by any prog rock follower.