Search - Roy Harper :: Dream Society

Refreshingly classic Roy Harper

Cartimand | 10/03/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Roy made his return after a long absence with Dream Society. It was worth the wait. Though it lacks the pain and caustic energy of Death or Glory, his most recent effort, Dream Society demonstrates that Roy has only improved with age."

There's life in the old troubadour yet

Cartimand | Hampshire, UK. | 06/28/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I cannot disagree with the comment that this is Roy's best album since HQ. Indeed, in many respects, this has more vibrancy and impact. Now writing from a lifetime of experiences (including plenty of Mary-Jane and Sir John Barleycorn) Roy injects great wisdom and humanity into what could easily become maudlin and routine songs in the hands of a lesser genius. The highlights for me are the opening Songs of Love where Roy sings a very effective duet and shows that the years haven't affected the astonishing range of his voice. The achingly beautiful Broken Wing is a classic example of Roy at his most sensitive. Angel of The Night is a heartfelt description of mental turmoil but still, somehow, remains uplifting. The piece de résistance though is undoubtedly These 50 Years. This massive track takes the form of a dialogue between Roy and God and touches on creation, evolution, naughty girls, drugs and rock n' roll. For my money, one of Roy's strongest songs ever. There are a couple of weaker tracks; a skiffly number and the whimsical Drugs for Everybody, but all in all, an essential purchase!"