Post Description

Renaissance biography
 There were two groups under the banner of RENAISSANCE. The first group included Keith and Jane RELF (vocals) and came from the YARDBIRDS ashes. The second and better known incarnation produced some of the best music that I have ever heard. Annie HASLAM's five octave range fit perfectly with the classical/orchestral rock (lot of piano playing & full symphony orchestra backup) created by the other members. The quick description I usually give is they are sort of like the old MOODY BLUES with a an incredible female vocalist. The soprano voice of Annie and the piano virtuosity of John TOUT allied to the beauty and refreshing melodies, the refinement of the arrangements gave their music its magnificent splendour.

My favorite RENAISSANCE albums are "Ashes Are Burning" and "Turn of the Cards". I also recommend "Novella", "Scheherezade and Other Stories" and "A Song for All Seasons" are must haves. I would add "Live At Carneige Hall" and "King Biscuit Hour Parts 1 and 2" as their 'prime' material. Plenty to fill a day with class, power and ethereal delights. The best introduction to the band would be the "Tales of 1001 Nights" compilation, which together contain of the band's best material from 72 through 80. Also the very first album from '69 is essential. After 1979, the band moved towards a more pop direction, like many other bands did in the late 70's. 


Act 1
 Turn of the Cards
Running Hard
 I Think of You
 Things I Don't Understand
 Black Flame
 Cold Is Being
 Mother Russia

Act 2
 Scheherazade and Other Stories
Trip to the Fair
 Vultures Fly High
 Ocean Gypsy
Song of Scheherazade
 The Mystic and the Muse



Line-up:
 Annie Haslam - lead Vocals
 Michael Dunford - Guitars & Vocals
 Rave Tesar - Keyboards
 David J. Keyes - Bass & Vocals
 Jason Hart - Keyboards & Vocals
 Frank Pagano - Drums, Percussion & Vocals


audio : LPCM 2ch