Review of Journey to the Centre of the Earth submitted on 8th December 2004

The Journey to the Centre of the Earth is a rather controversial album, on one hand you have the classical style, (the orchestra and choir) but on the other you have a one off album that can't be matched (well possibly by either Jeff Wayne’s 'War of the Worlds' or Genesis 'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway'). The imagery obtained from the story along with the playing of the orchestra and keyboard allows a mental picture like no other. The keyboard playing gives the music a 'certain haunting quality' which is only present in this and 6 Wives.

Review of Out There submitted on 18th April 2005

You would have thought that after 32 years Rick's work would have become rather samey and boring, in fact it's getting better than ever, this is without a doubt his best album to date. I bought this Album in Aberdeen whilst waiting for a train back to London, and what better way to kill 7 hours, but to listen to this album 7 times? I mean the classic combination of Keyboards, Drums, Guitars and Choir that we know so well from many of Rick's albums is back and better than we've ever known before, well done Rick, I take my hat off to you.

Review of The Six Wives of Henry VIII submitted on 13th January 2006

The Six Wives of Henry VIII is undoubtedly a classic and should be listened to by Progressive rock fans the world over. The Drumming in the second track is reason alone to listen to the album, and Rick's unique style of writing and performing sets it apart most prog rock outfits of the time. If you liked any of Rick’s other albums, or indeed, and early albums from Yes, you'll undoubtedly enjoy this one. It's a classic.

Review of Retro submitted on 28th April 2006

The whole concept behind 'Retro' is the vintage approach, using only modern recording techniques so that now we can enjoy Rick's most traditional form of music but with the benefit of 21st century recording quality. As for the music itself, it creates a strong enigma right from the off, rather in the same way as 'Out There'(2003) does, with a mysterious keyboard riff. There are many catchy keyboard riffs undertaken on much of the vintage line up, the best of which I noted to be in the tracks, 'Waveform' and 'One in the eye'. These are what it's all about, and confirm that Rick still has it as far as progressive rock is concerned. The youngest sound on the recording is that of Rick's daughter Jemma, who gives some sterling vocal performances alongside Ashley Holt, who consequently is well-known amongst Rick's fans from being in 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' (1974). In conclusion, if you've enjoyed any of Rick's previous albums you’re sure to find this a great listen. You've done it again Rick!

Review of 1984 submitted on 6th June 2014

I, like many others was shocked to read Rick's verdict on this one and again, I couldn't agree less with his own verdict. This is one of those albums that hooked me instantly, for the summer of 2009 I couldn't stop listening to it. It flows nicely and the lyrics are great with the just the right balance of catchy easy to listen to songs and grander arrangements, I'd rate this above most of Rick's albums. Rick, listen to your fans, take pride in this work, we're telling you it's great.