1993 saw the third Phenomena album, which was recorded under quite different circumstances in that not only were the musicians quite different but again it was back to a single singer, namely Keith Murrell who as well as being lead singer for Mama’s Boys, had worked as a backing singer for Cliff Richard and with Mike Oldfield. When the album was released the record label decided not to use the artwork provided but went with something far more basic, but on this reissue the original artwork has been restored. Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy) had been involved with the last album and was again on hand to provide guitar for this one. Some of the recording was undertaken in Olympic Studios, and they were in there at the same time as Queen, and Scott convinced Brian May to play guitar on a couple of tracks.
Again, the booklet contains interesting information and all the lyrics, but it was obvious that the concept was coming to the end of the line and this was the final Phenomena album for some years. It’s a shame as although the album, production and arrangements are really quite dated, there are some highlights on here with “Into The Fire” containing all the elements to have been a smash melodic rock hit with brilliant vocals, strong hooks and plenty of riffs. I am somewhat surprised that Keith didn’t become a far more well-known singer after this as he puts in some fine performances. In many ways this is the best album of the three, with far more consistency and some fire in the attack yet is very much the least known of them all. Now is the time to put that right.
Rating: 8/10
