"The Eye of the Eagle"

  This fascinating concept combines the creative energies of Messrs Bainbridge, Fitzgerald and Adam (each with the co-incidental forename of David). DB and DF were ofcourse co-founders of Celtic masters Iona. David Adam is a priest, poet and visionary author of the p/b "The Eye of the Eagle", which gives this album it's name. Quoting from the book; 'The Celtic Church....prayed that their eyes might be opened, that all their senses might be made alert to that which is invisible....they sought to see with the eye of the eagle'.
  The project was many months in the making, and features various recording locations such as Lindisfarne Island, source of much Celtic inspiration, Scotland, Yorkshire, and St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, Suffolk. The unusual recording comprises short poetic readings from Mr. Adam, and the brooding soundscapes evoked by Bainbridge and Fitzgerald as they conjure musical images of the Heavenlies, the rhythms of nature, and man's journey through life. All tracks are essentially instrumental, though Clannad's Maire Brennan does vocal loops on a couple of cuts. Dave Bainbridge composed much of the material, and plays keyboards, guitars and bells (as well as providing the programming and vocal arrangements). Co-writer David Fitzgerald makes deft and stirring use of saxophones, flutes, Irish whistles and clarinet. With the added impact of a huge church organ on the occasional piece, these sounds and textures become woven into a moody musical tapestry, represented by the stitched cotton, silk and metallic thread design from the album's cover.
  This is undoubtedly an acquired taste. But, given patience, sensitivity and use of the imaginative faculties, this album may soon win you over.

Review by tom lennie