Guitarist
Phil Miller
resides as one of the preeminent exponents of
progressive rock
, notwithstanding his storied legacy amid the much beloved British
Canterbury
rock
scene. Otherwise, this 1991 release features the guitarist performing with some of his longtime musical associates: bassist
Fred Baker
, drummer
Pip Pyle
, and keyboardist
Pete Lemer
. Armed with MIDI and electric guitars,
Miller
successfully masters the digital revolution with a congenial and altogether zestful set, featuring
Pyle
's drum programming and the soloists' astute effects manipulations. Here, the band melds jazzy motifs with ethereal backdrops, whimsical themes, and memorably melodic choruses. Furthermore,
and
Lemer
employ MIDI-based trumpet and vibes patches, whereas
Baker
often trades harmonious notes with the primary soloists via his fluent attack and articulately executed chord voicings. Ultimately,
's penchant for constructing melodically tinged compositions among a series of cheery arrangements provides the winning formula. Recommended. ~ Glenn Astarita