Superstars next challenge

DURING THE mid 1970s the popularity of progressive rock was at an all time high with acts such as Yes, Jethro Tull and, especially, ELP enjoying huge album sales and playing to sold out crowds the world over. Of course, shadowing these giants of prog were a number of young upstarts keen to make a challenge for gold and glory, not least of these were American mid-west contenders Starcastle. The band’s carefully executed debut album attracted a number of converts, selling something in the region of a quarter of a million copies, resulting in Epic records taking a keener interest. In an effort to up the ante, so to speak, the band was sent into the studio (Morin Heights, Quebec) to record their next album with flamboyant and creative British producer Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, Journey, Foreigner). ‘Fountains Of Light’ is arguably Starcastle’s finest moment. Baker’s production is meticulous yet forceful, allowing the band to stretch out and take on the competition without sacrificing integrity or a natural melodic song writing ability. Packed out with hooks to die for and submerged in complex yet accessible arrangements, the album oozes charm and class. Housed in one of the most impressively designed album sleeves of the seventies ‘Fountains Of Light’ still presses all the right buttons. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, new interview with band and additional photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Fountains 2. Dawning Of The Day 3. Silver Winds 4. True To The Light 5. Portraits 6. Diamond Song (Deep Is The Light)