review by thomas

Like it's predecessor this is just one continuous piece of heavenly music. With the saxophones taking a major part in the music. Barrimore's drumming and the drum sound must be pointed out, it just can't get any better - not likely anyhow. Apart from the heavy use of saxophones "A Passion Play" is not unlike "Thick as a Brick" in it's basic foundation only everything is better, more sophisticated, smoother and not so heavy as "Brick" sometimes can be. On the other hand "A Passion Play" is much darker, in spite of the sometimes jovial atmosphere of the music. The dark and gloomy bites that can creep up on you are mainly coming from the lyrics.

The two parts (side A and B) are abruptly interrupted by a fable-like story about a hare who have lost his spectacles named just "The Story of the Hare Who Lost His Spectacles". It's lyrics are recitated over childrens television-like music. A deserving and amusing intermission; maybe given to make sure you have time to catch your breath before part two. The lyrics were and is stated by many (including Mr.Anderson himself) to deal with life after death in one way or another. Having said this it's up to each one of us to decide whether we agree or not.

A masterpiece! Essential for everybody! One of the very best albums ever made!