Review of Talking Heads:
Steve Roberts, Synth Music Direct.

"Robert's eagerly awaited follow up to 'Into the Light' is his sixth solo offering since his 1992 debut 'Asfafa'  and fans will not be disappointed. However, despite retaining key elements of his sound, 'Talking Heads' is a more mature, introspective album than its predecessors. The widescreen, expansive notes at the opening of 'Danger Zone' clearly demonstrate that Vangelis remains a key source of inspiration behind Robert's sweeping sonic vistas but the overall sound is more subdued, despite the busy, inventive percussion effects. The piano motif is downbeat and memorable and it's a highly engaging opening. However, the best is yet to come.

The second cut, 'Queen of Hearts', begins with almost subliminal effects before an ominous, metronomic rhythm creaks across the speakers and then, almost in complete contrast, comes the main theme which is simply brilliant, managing to lift your spirits and yet retaining a sense of melancholy, sadness even. Outstanding. The title track has a more upbeat rhythm and sequencers accompanying the Vangelis - style keyboard themes and textures with samples of conversations weaving in and out of the mix. The overall effect is hypnotic without being overindulgent.

'Water Music' is more tranquil, with Enya-esque vocals, gentle rhythm guitar, or effects, and disciplined, economical piano motifs. 'Four Six Zero' is another subtle change of style and pace, with a slightly more contemporary edge to the rhythms, keyboards and more sampled voices with spiritual overtones. 'Bethlehem 2000' has grown on me with repeated plays, as Fox carefully develops his themes, nurturing a subdued sense of wonder along the way.

'Back to Childhood' again uses extracts of speech set against some interesting percussion treatments and more minimalist piano work. 'So Small Am I' concludes the set with another fine theme, augmented by guitar, or effects. The occasional tolling bell, and the spiritual voices, remind me of Code Indigo, and although not quite reaching the dizzy heights of track 2, it's a satisfying end to the album.

Perhaps in places, there is an over reliance on sampled voices, and a vow of silence for the chanting monks for at least a couple of albums would get my vote, but these are minor quibbles. I have already derived immense enjoyment from this album which is frankly a breath of fresh air through a slightly stagnant EM scene. At this moment, 'Talking Heads' is my favourite Robert Fox album and I'm sure it will stand the test of time. With tracks like 'Queen of Hearts' how can it fail?"