For Starcastle's followup we see the band starting to make a conscious move toward more user friendly music. It was after all the expectation of the day - and the label wanted to maximize their profits by capitalizing on the surprise success of their debut. But in the end, Starcastle barely changed at all. Perhaps a trim here and there, but there's no denying this as anything but complex progressive rock - in bite size chunks. If we are to make the inevitable Yes comparison, then we must do so considering the short form progressive rock composition. Yes themselves just started doing that as well in 1977, and when we put up Fountains of Light and Citadel against Going for the One and Tormato, Starcastle comes away as the clear front runner. In fact, were it not for the crowd favorite epic 'Awaken' on Going for the One, then there would be no debate at all - but that was Yes doing what they did best - the long form.
It's a pity that Starcastle carry the Yes clone stigma. I fear that many do miss out on the joy of the music itself. If you find yourself as that person, give them another shot with a different filter. You may come away surprised.
LP: 1977 Epic
CD: 2010 Rock Candy (UK)
Originals are very easy to find - so much so that the only real issue is can you find a perfect mint copy, maybe even sealed! Cool Ayn Rand inspired cover too. The Rock Candy reissue is really great, with a full historical essay and interviews with the band. It really does fill in the blanks of what I'd been saying for years about the band and their place in history. Great sound too. No bonus tracks though.
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