Reviewed by Alex Figgis

For a Floyd-esque progressive rock project, look no further than Casino. Originally released in 1992, the band's self titled debut album has recently been re-issued thanks to Pinnacle. Featuring the late Geoff 'the Rockin' Rev.' Mann (ex 12th Night) on vocals, accompanied by Clive Nolan (Arena) and Mike Stobbie (Pallas) on keys, Sylvian Gouvemaire (Iris) and Karl Groom (Threshold) on guitars, Jon Jeary (Threshold) on bass with drums split between Brian Devoil (Threshold) and Paul Flynn; Casino play obscure music that begs the listener to be patient in order to reap full benefit both sonically and lyrically. Using the witty idea of a casino to portray spiritual truth in a novel and compelling way, Geoff here likens the world to that of life for those addicted to gambling - who constantly live for 'the big win'. Tempted by greed and seduced by lies, the tale is told of Lucky Jimmy who falls foul of the Casino. Try as he might, he cannot free himself from his self-destructive gambling nature, until a mysterious stranger arrives on the scene, who "...spoke about freedo/mAnd life beyond winning" ("Stranger"). Stand out tracks have to be the triumphant mood and tone of "Beyond That Door" (a novel take on faith, repentance and service unto Christ) and "Crap Game"; an analogy for man's philosophy of life, where "to win is the top limit". 'Casino' is both deftly produced and executed, where the music aptly upholds the album's theme, making 'Casino' a musical work worthy of investigating.

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