Well-known as the major composer within prog legends Protos, Rory Ridley-Duff's musical influences are far-reaching. Where the sister release to this collection 'Passing Decades' contains a heady brew of prog and jazz-funk tinged conpositions (including some Protos pieces), 'A Question of Expression' is a more intimate, yet ultimately more moving album. The opening piece, 'Renaissance' will appeal to all who enjoy the piano style of Keith Emerson. There are many resonances here and it makes for a beautiful and unexpected opening to the album. The suite for piano, marimba and vibraphone is in some ways a bridging piece between Ridley-Duff's two solo albums. Clearly influenced by the styles of Chick Corea and Gary Burton, the rabid syncopations provide a stark yet more upbeat contrast to the previous piece. Space (also included on Passing Decades) is a masterwork - possible Ridley-Duff's best solo effort. Effortlessly spacious, yet highly melodic and emotional. The next standout track is the title track, A Question of Expression. The feeling of loneliness in the opening section is profound only to be replaced by a more percussive and Emerson-esque second subject. A intriguing title track for any album! When the pain is over is clearly Satie-influenced but with it's own melodic and harmonic language. Ridley-Duff's virtuosic style is never more evident than in Interrogation and the album's closing 'Triads in arms' effectively demonstrates his impressive orchestration credentials.
This collection will delight all fans of intelligent and original composition. Introspective, mature, emotional - and frequently amazing.
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