Not only did this album help pave the way for
progressive rock
, but it also introduced the unbridled energy and overall effectiveness of the synthesizer as a bona fide instrument.
Six Wives
gave
Wakeman
his chance to break away from the other instrumental complexities that made up
Yes
and allowed him to prove what a driving force the keyboard could truly be, especially in full album form. More than just synthesized wandering,
astoundingly conjures up a separate musical persona by way of an instrumental ode to each of Henry VIII's wives through his dazzling use of the Mellotron, Moog, and Hammond C-3 organ. For example,
's fiery runs and fortissimo thwarting of the synthesizer throughout
"Anne Boleyn"
is a tribute to her feisty temper and valiant courage that she maintained while standing up to her husband. With
"Jane Seymour,"
on the other hand,
's playing is somewhat subdued and gentle, which coincides with her legendary meekness and frailty, as well as her willingness to cater to Henry VIII.
's masterful use of his synthesizers is instrumentally stunning, as is his talent of magically shaping the notes to represent behavioral idiosyncrasies of his characters.
bassist
Chris Squire
lends a hand on
"Catherine of Aragon,"
while guitarist
Steve Howe
and drummer
Bill Bruford
appear on a few tracks as well, as does former
Strawbs
member
Dave Cousins
, playing the electric banjo.
The Six Wives of Henry VIII
unleashes the unyielding power of the keyboard as a dominant instrument, but also displays
at the beginning of an extremely resplendent career as a solo musician. ~ Mike DeGagne