Jon and Vangelis - (1983) Private Collection

Studio Album, released in 1983

The third collaboration by Jon and Vangelis was released in 1983, some two years after "The friends of Mr. Cairo". While the first side of the LP might be described as largely predictable, the 23 minute piece on side two is something of a surprise.

The atmosphere is mainly relaxed through the five tracks on side one, "Italian song" and "And when the night comes" being reflective Anderson focused songs. The latter features Dick Morresey's sole contribution to this album (he was used much more on "Mr Cairo") in the form of some atmospheric sax. The line up description of his contribution as "wind" on this site seems a trifle unfortunate though!

Vangelis continues to play the role of orchestrator on "Deborah", a rather slushy open letter by Anderson to his eldest daughter (who would have been about 13 at the time). "Polonaise" has a hymnal quality, the song building in anthemic fashion, while always seeming rather restrained. "He is sailing", which closes the first side, is the only track with any real life. Anderson's multi- tracked chanted vocals are reminiscent of his "Olias" album, while Vangelis finally contributes a little more than mere atmospheres.

"Horizon", which occupies side two, is the opposite of the songs on side one in that here we have Vangelis supported by Jon Anderson. Jon still manages a significant vocal contribution, once more in the vein of his "Olias.." album, but Vangelis takes a much greater performing role here. The piece is pleasantly relaxed, something to sit back and enjoy rather than to get excited by. Indeed, I have to say that each time I listen to this side, and the album as a whole, I find my attention wandering!

In all, this is a well performed but ultimately undemanding album, which offers a good listen but fails to leave any lasting impression.

Track Listings

1. Italian Song (2:54)
2. And When the Night Comes (4:37)
3. Deborah (4:56)
4. Polonaise (5:26)
5. He Is Sailing (6:49)
6. Horizon (22:53)

Toatl Time: 47:35
Line-up/Musicians

- Jon Anderson / vocals
- Dick Morrissey / wind
- Vangelis / synthesizers