Metal Mind Productions (2008)

I don’t know if being the son of legendary Rick Wakeman has put a lot of pressure on Oliver. Apparently there is no need to worry. Oliver Wakeman has already built a name for himself. He’s not only a great keyboard player but also a fantastic composer with a superb sense of building beautiful melodies. When this musical virtuoso wants to record or perform live most singers and musicians would be honoured to join him. From this concert it’s obvious that he chooses from the top shelf. Paul Manzi handles the vocals superbly. What a wonderful and well trained voice this man possesses! David Mark Pearce plays guitar perfectly and Paul Brown appears on bass. Dave Wagstaffe can be seen and heard from his drum kit. Although Mr Wakeman himself obviously has a central position the stage is also dominated by Mr Manzi and Mr Pearce with ample space for Mr Brown and Mr Wagstaffe.

This is by no means the most action filled and eventful live show I’ve seen. In fact it’s simply five great musicians playing their music in all simplicity for an appreciative audience. When it comes to progressive rock of this high calibre there is in many ways no really simple way of performing it. So, just observing the musicians as one leans back to take in the beautiful music is entertainment enough in itself. What really catch my attention on this dvd are the many wonderful songs and emotional ballads. Every song is performed with emotions combined with musical perfection. I think I would recommend the version with the bonus CD as the music in itself is the focal point of this concert and subsequent release. If you love melodic progressive rock, bluesy rock or simply is a sucker for ballads, check out Oliver Wakeman and his happy minstrels.

www.metalmind.com.pl

Composed by Ravn