An underrated classic
Geoff Hall | Borehamwood, UK | 09/04/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"... I had to go elsewhere to get a copy of the CD, and it cost me a lot of time and money - but it was worth it.This is one of the most original albums you could buy. Three of the songs - "For America", "Lean On Me" and "Heart Of The Sun" were hits in the UK and were the reason why I originally bought the album. However, "Living In Domes", "Billy's Line", "Bantu", "Chenko" and, in particular, the Buffy Saint-Marie song "Saskatchewan" are a varied collection of brilliant "World Music"-type songs and made a change from other kinds of music (a lot of it good) which was heard at the same time. The infectious enthusiasm of the girls and boys in the troupe behind Simon Tolson-Clarke and Julian Close, when performing, was another reason for enjoying the album.It is really a shame that this album has not been re-released in the UK and US on CD - an absolute travesty - because I consider it to be one of the great albums of the 1980's. As I described it in the title, it's an underrated classic.As a footnote, Red Box produced a second album - "Motive" - which I didn't even know about. Different in many ways - one obvious change is the lack of the backing troupe - but with some really catchy and infectious tunes. It's another brilliant album which has been ignored."
It's about time!
M. Fitzsimons | Portland, OR USA | 12/18/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"FINALLY! I can't believe it's on CD! This album was released for a very limited time on CD way back in 1986 and has been out of print for well over a decade. Thank god someone had the sense to re-issue it as a Japanesse import. It's an album of "world-pop" style music, unlike anything else. All the tracks are brilliant. It's one of my favorite albums of all time list. Plus, the fact that it's been so elusive had made it even more cherished - and now to have it on CD is truly wonderous."
Ahead of its time - Circle in the Square
Richard Rockwell | Huntington Woods, MI USA | 11/21/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I agree with those who found this rare album to be one of astonishing beauty and creativity. I bought the LP many years ago and when Amazon offered it as an import cd, I ordered it right away. The Buffy Saint-Marie song "Saskatchewan," a quasi-spiritual experience, is the standout track for me with mystical rhythms and haunting multi-tracked vocals. Those of us who have heard this music know what a rich tapestry of sounds it explores. Circle in the Square was a breakthrough album - years ahead of its time - and it is still fresh and innovative on cd in 2003. I don't know of any other recording or artist that compares to this unique work."
Track Listings (18) - Disc #1
