Originally written as an expression of grief over the loss of our fathers. Pathways tells the story coming to terms with loss. The Reverend John Shoaf provided the music and melody to the lyrics while Doug provided the definitive progressive rock statement of the song.
Billed as the masters of symphonic prog this album is an interesting of styles and influences. Folky in parts, rocky in others.
Vocals are good and male for a change. Both lyrics and music are involving and all in all this album is a good listen.
I will be looking at The Gift's other offerings. Russell Whyman
To me, "Trip The Life Fantastic" was a must-buy on "Bandcamp Friday" this time. It's one of the few "Drifting Sun" albums not already found in my collection, and an essential one, because it marks the beginning of the prolific collaboration of composer/keyboardist Pat Sanders and lyricist/singer Peter Falconer, which was, in my opinion, the best creative pairing the band ever had. Sven B. Schreiber (sbs)
Ein so seltsames Album ist mir lange nicht mehr untergekommen. Der Track „Blood Of The Rose“ lässt den Hörer die Stirn in Falten ziehen. Eine zuckersüße, liebliche, kitschige Melodie dringt an das Ohr des Hörers. So säuselt der Song eine Weile vor sich hin, bis er plötzlich etwa bei Halbzeit (es handelt sich um einen 10minüter) komplett die Stimmung wechselt und plötzlich mit zupackender Gitarre und Sprech-Gesang in einen floydige Bluesrock-Hymne umschlägt... sehr kurios!
(March 7, 2015) kadees