Who would be better suited than Mr Powell, who arranged the elaborate orchestral parts for almost all Project albums? But he left it not going to re-record the tracks in classic garb, but maintained with that particular combination of rock and classical music typical Parsons sound that has always characterized the Project albums. And that sounds today, after more than 30 years, still amazing!
The (initial) combination of 'Lucifer' and 'Mamma Gamma' (with the fanfare intro of 'May Be A Price To Pay') heralds the album with dramatic power. More titles like 'Damned If I Do', 'What Goes Up' and 'Eye in the sky' handled easily what the opener promises while being struck with 'Time' and 'Old and Wise' the gentler tones, and more than eight minute 'I Robot Suite' provides in my view, brilliant summary of the eponymous second album of the Projects.
Whether the items are really the best of the Alan Parsons Project, was once an open question, especially since the Project had many albums in front of him at this time. Who knows what song would it also managed in this exquisite tracklist, Mr Powell had made up at a later date to work? But well, as sure every fan has their own opinion.
I'm glad I have gained this album a long time ago, when it was finally available on CD, because nowadays there is evidently a true rarity. I also like the original cover in 'Scrabble' design much better than the surrealistic redesign, but of course this is a matter of taste, and ultimately counts is the content.
Perhaps experiencing 'Andrew Powell & The Philharmonia Orchestra Play The Best Of The Alan Parsons Project' one day the honor of a republication as carefully restored Remaster with extensive booklet. Worth it had this fantastic work in every case.
