Released in 1975, Eloy’s Power And The Passion, their fourth studio album, is a masterpiece of progressive symphony rock that has to be heard firsthand to be fully appreciated. The musical structure and compositions are exceptional, yet the concept album approach doesn’t quite grab me. Granted, I appreciate the human vocal as another instrument in the mix, rather than a storytelling device, but the idea of a drug-fueled time traveller and an encounter with a wizard doesn’t grab me at all.

What does captivate me, however, is the cover art and music contained within this release. Eloy has always had captivating artwork, primarily targeted at the larger vinyl canvas. Yet, in a surprising omission, Power And The Passion hasn’t been reissued on vinyl since 1982. Those of you who aren’t enamoured with this legacy format may question what all the fuss is about, but I’d argue that Eloy is one of those bands that would see many collectors, particularly of their classic 70s era recordings, clamour for the chance to get updated copies of the albums they love; if for no other reason than to have an unadulterated piece of captivating visual art.

As it stands, the lossless Apple Music stream will have to suffice for the modern music lover as this CD counterpart is derived from the last CD remaster from the year 2000. Perhaps suffice is the wrong word to use because the sonic prowess of the lossless stream is magical. It may not be an Apple Digital Master, but it’s enveloping, with a soundstage that goes well beyond your speakers and is so impressive that I can see why another remaster hasn’t been issued. While I haven’t heard an original mastering of the Power And The Passion, when music sounds this good, I’m in pure sonic bliss and truly hope that the band, and record label, leave well enough alone. That said, this album, and Eloy’s classic era releases, are most certainly long overdue for being reissued on vinyl.

Introduction sets the stage perfectly for the songs that are to come. With its masterfully composed ethereal synthesised sounds and spacey textures, Introduction creates a sense of anticipation and mystery that flows beautifully into Journey Into 1358.

Journey Into 1358 is a killer tune with an incredible vocal presentation and musical bed that gives a sense of grandeur to the song.

Love Over Six Centuries is a lovely musical experience that is not only flawless and epic but must be heard firsthand in order to be fully appreciated. It’s so good, that it is easily one of the greatest songs Eloy ever recorded.

Mutiny, as with the other songs, flows so seamlessly that you could be mistaken for appreciating the album as a single body of work, and while I wouldn’t necessarily seek any song out on its own, as Power And The Passion is best heard in its intended album structure, songs such as Mutiny are so powerful that I could see them being easily added to a playlist, or played on repeat for hours on end.

Imprisonment has a rather creepy introduction but, thankfully, it doesn’t continue for it is one song that gives me the heebie-jeebies. After the anxiety has ceased tormenting my senses, Imprisonment comes into its own and while not a standout, it’s a solid album-only tune.

Daylight, in contrast to Imprisonment, is a little too campy and upbeat. It’s also fair to say that it’s my least favourite song from the album, but I can appreciate it in the record’s linear structure and the album wouldn’t be the same without it.

Thoughts Of Home is short but is an absolute masterstroke of creative genius with a composition that I never tire of.

The Zany Magician will encourage you to get out your air guitar for this is a killer rock number with attitude to burn. Not only is it memorable, but it’s one of the greatest songs that Eloy ever recorded. Yes, the vocal aspects could have been removed entirely, and it could have been a masterful instrumental number, but that aspect adds context for those who are following the story arc.

Back Into The Present doesn’t truly embrace the setup that was heard in The Zany Magician, but there are some redeeming qualities, such as that killer guitar solo.

The Bells Of Notre Dame is an ideal closer; one that permits contemplation whilst simultaneously encouraging you to play the record again. Incorporating aspects heard throughout the entire album, The Bells Of Notre Dame is nothing short of a sonic masterpiece.

Overall, Power And The Passion is a masterful work of progressive rock that continues to enthral listeners with its timeless appeal. While I may not be convinced of the album’s thought-provoking themes, the epic compositions ensure the album remains a classic of the genre and is a testament to Eloy's enduring creativity and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned prog enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Power And The Passion is essential listening for anyone who appreciates ambitious and adventurous music.