The fact that one musician, Vince Cross, is credited only with playing the Yamaha DX7, the synthesizer responsible for the soundalike quality of almost all pop singles recorded between 1984 and 1988, shouldn't keep fans of Steeleye Span's earlier work away from its 14th album, 1986's BACK IN LINE. While Cross's contributions may sound slightly dated now, they're minimal, and the songs themselves are a fine lot, including the group's best single of the '80s, the quietly moving "Somewhere in London."
As always, Maddy Prior's vocals and Peter Knight's fiddle share center stage, and both are at their best on the dazzling opener "Edward." The album also includes three excellent live tracks, including a remarkable version of their classic arrangement of "One Misty Moisty Morning." BACK IN LINE, while not as perfect as PLEASE TO SEE THE KING or ALL AROUND MY HAT, is a lovely folk-rock album.
Professional Reviews
Q (9/91) - 3 stars - Good "..Maddy Prior's voice never fails to excite..a good album.."
