Distinctly English progressive hard rock
Grab yourself a pot of tea and some toasted crumpets, because things are about to get peculiarly English. Originally formed in 1985, the newly retitled and reformed arK offer a very traditional take on the latest progressive rock sounds. Wild Untamed Imaginings' artwork may suggest Floydian leanings, but the music draws more on recent Uriah Heep paired with Peter Gabriel-era Genesis in the storytelling, whimsical lyrics.
'Boudicca's Chariot' is an excellent introduction, spelling out direction and mood from the start. Charting a child's anticipation of their holiday it's equal parts complex half-spoken story and melodic anthem. Although the overriding feel is that of a hard rock album driven by screaming guitars, it still feels a little trapped by its prog roots when the synths kick in. And that's even before 'Flagday' introduces a flute. But it would be a mistake to think that they've gone all Jethro Tull. The distinctly familiar guitar riffage of 'Coats of Red' may be a weak point, but suggests more in common with Marillion or even Iron Maiden in terms of composition.
As dark as the album can go, with the sarcastic and creepy 'New Scientist' and its harsh criticism of soulless scientific achievement, it has fantastically light moments of brilliant melody and harmony. 'Flagday' and 'Hagley' have gorgeous hooks and a relaxed, dreamy feel. It's almost a shock when 'Gaia' starts, with its synthesised heavy metal feel and immediate presence. It's also the hardest track to pick any one influence out in.
'Eighth Deadly Sin' has a harsh, industrial grate and echoing drum sound suggesting later Genesis influences, bringing the tone of the album back to a dark reality. It also possesses one of the best guitar solos (one of many great synth or guitar solos) on the record. 'Change pt.2' is fast paced but one of the weakest and least memorable tracks on the album.
'So You Finally Made It' has a melancholy beauty that manages to be slower and still keeps your interest. Evoking the ELP vibe that has been haunting the synths all the way through, this ballad marries the pop and prog elements of arK's style more successfully than any other track. 'Kaleidoscope' is a sumptuous sunburst of musical variety, with some beautiful synth work that lies somewhere between ELP and Yes. Although 'Nowhere's Ark' doesn't break new territory it does possess a great blend of modern rock, prog, and folk.
There's no way to fault the detailed musicianship and fine blend of melodies and styles, and it does bridge a gap in the 'accessible prog' section of the modern music market. Some traditionalists may find parts of the album too derivative and unoriginal, but the overall effect is beautifully put-together and is a joy to listen to for even the casual prog or hard rock enthusiast.