Reviewed by Tim Cockram

Phil Overton and his band are quite difficult to categorise stylistically. On first listening the opening track "I Don't Wanna Waste My Time" sort of reminded me of Roger Chapman and Family. On closer listening there are many different sounds and styles that have been fused and built on by Phil and the band. The nearest to a label I could get to was a mixture of the Strawbs (during the Wakeman era), Jethro Tull and Family, quality rock with a dash of blues and at times a folkish feel. Grown up music and not ashamed of it. The album consists of 12 superbly recorded tracks with lyrics that demand the listener's attention. I must single out the electric guitar parts as they are truly inspired (without being flash), excellent musicianship. A couple of times the piano parts hint at country music but (fortunately) never quite get there. What can I say? Despite 'After The Dream' not being my normal fare I really have enjoyed listening to it. Wouldn't mind seeing the band live too. You'll get a great deal more from this album than some chart stuff or the latest must have heavy metal accordion praise CD. If you have a spare #14, part with it, you'll be glad that you did.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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