MEGAscene • Issue 12 - 2018
MEGAreleases “If You Think I’m Crazy!” by Phil Lanzon
By Michelle McGoldrick
Ode To Ned Kelly on Phil Lanzon Solo Album
which have permeated Lanzon’s music and consciousness with songs rooted in Australian folklore, American gospel and southern roots, and English secular orchestral music. The song called “Kelly Gang” begins with flute honouring the Irish heritage of an ill-fated bush outlaw, and soon unfolds into a tale of colonialism, power and resistance. “Oh well, it’s come to this at last’” said the infamous Australian bushranger Ned Kelly. And after thirty two years as keyboardist and songwriter for Uriah Heep, Phil Lanzon has finally released a spectacular solo album. At last.
In the title song “If You Think I’m Crazy!“ and on “The Forest” the vocals are angelic and positive underpinned by drumming that frames many stunning keyboard moments that add signature colour and beauty to this album. On “I Knew I Was Dreaming” there is a distinct gospel feel that borders on evangelist. With the catch cry ‘if you think I’m crazy to make this dream come true I’ll leave it up to you’, Lanzon sings of being touched by angels where the ills of the world are righted.
This is not a keyboard showcase album. This is a theatrical album created by a musician who has played live to millions of people and played on nine Uriah Heep studio albums. IF YOU THINK I’M CRAZY! reflects the positivity and confidence of Lanzon who has made a name and a career within an unmistakable genre, This album aims to soar. but remained opened to the significant global artistic influences his career has afforded. Ned Kelly also said: “I ask that my story be heard and considered.” Lanzon has embodied The album is a story book of the influences the same right to be heard as a song writer which have permeated Lanzon’s music and and performer in his own right on this album. consciousness with songs rooted in Australian With superb production, wide ranging vocals folklore, American gospel and southern roots, and harmonies, and deep but catchy melodies; and English secular orchestral music. this is an album for music connoisseurs who like their orchestras and choirs embedded in The album is a story book of the influences expansive melodic rock narratives. 54