Tales From The Lush Attic by IQ

Tales From The Lush Attic, IQ's beautiful first album, was released in 1983. This work is a blend of captivating melodies and complex musical structures, in which this UK band has created a unique atmosphere that transports the listener on a sonic journey.

With tracks like "The Last Human Gateway," IQ demonstrates their ability to blend poetic lyrics with complex instrumental arrangements. Peter Nicholls's voice stands out for its expressiveness, while the guitars and keyboards intertwine in a way that captivates and enchants.

- On side A, "The Last Human Gateway," a very progressive suite lasting about 20 minutes, and "Through the Corridors," very short but with a very pleasant sound.

- Side B begins with "Awake & Nervous," featuring excellent drums and Moog.

- Next comes "My Baby Treats Me Right 'Cos I'm A Hard Lovin' Man All Night Long" with a beautiful piano solo.

- Then comes my favorite track, "The Enemy Smacks," which in my opinion is their most iconic piece. A complex, very progressive piece, with melodic guitar and excellent keyboard arrangements, drums with their tempo changes, and beautiful guitar solos. 13 minutes truly well spent.

Similarities with  Genesis and Marillion? There are some here and there, but I think the influences are not only normal but also a virtue.

It must be said, however, that this album and Marillion's first are contemporary, and the sound isn't exactly similar to Genesis's, but more of a so-called neo-prog, more in step with the times. In any case, if I could create a band that sounds like Genesis, I'd be proud. I wish!

Tales From The Lush Attic is a must-have for any progressive rock fan, appearing at the beginning of a golden age for the genre, a period of renewal that has continued to this day.

Highly recommended album.

Tracklist

1. The Last Human Gateway (19:57)
2. Through the Corridors (2:35)
3. Awake and Nervous (7:45)
4. My Baby Treats Me Right 'Cos I'm a Hard Lovin' Man All Night Long (1:45)
5. The Enemy Smacks (13:49)

Duration 45:51

LineUp

- Peter Nicholls - vocals
- Mike Holmes - guitar
- Martin Orford - keyboards
- Tim Esau - bass
- Paul Cook - drums, percussion

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