Haze -
In the End : 1978-1988

“There is a great depth to the music which makes it almost difficult to define... This CD is far more than a normal release, but rather an introduction to a form of progressive rock whose demise was mourned by many. Good music, loads of information and photos. What more could you want?” [Feedback]

“Haze were the band that introduced humor to progressive rock in a big way. They delighted audiences not normally associated with the genre and still had room left over for serious songs, deft lyrics, and solid musicianship... An almost perfect retrospective for the interested listener... Kinesis have opted for Haze’s more progressive sounding outings and I think, by and large, it’s a very sound selection which has a sensible defining theme... This is a return to the good old days of the progressive resurgence. The Haze revival starts here.” [Angry]

“The music of Haze is an energetic and very progressive style with some jazzy and funky influences. At times you hear some influences of Genesis and Deep Purple, with a slice of Van der Graaf Generator, but they managed to create their own atmosphere... For the hardcore progrock fan, I would say that you are in a certain way obligated to purchase this CD.” [Background]

“One of the more undeservedly obscure UK progressive bands... Haze toured with Solstice and Pendragon, so that should give you some indication of the type of music they play. Most of the tracks include an extended instrumental section where the playing can get quite spirited... I really have tried to dislike this disc but it hasn’t worked... It might be the non-pretentious vocals, the simple song construction, or subliminal messages. Whatever it is, it works.” [Exposé]

“In the End: 1978-1988 spans the ten year period indicated in the title, and includes only the tracks that fit the ’prog’ mold. There are a variety of influences, though the dominant one is the early seventies UK sound, with traces of Genesis, Camel, Greenslade, and the like. On some of the more aggressive tracks, elements of early Saga show up. All in all, this 78+ minute set offers up a very good insight into one of the more undeservedly neglected UK bands. Some of the older tracks are slightly lower-fi than the rest, but the quality of the music renders that unworthy of serious attention.” [Gibraltar]

“Haze were often capable of providing just what we want. They use analog keyboards and string machines to take us on adventures that very nearly stand up to classic prog of the 70’s. At times Haze are the epitome of the 80’s prog sound... this CD is packed with classic REAL prog.” [The Organ]

“Haze bridge the time between the end of the first progressive era and the flowering of the neo-prog scene in Britain... Like the early neo-prog bands, Haze draw their influence directly from their 70’s counterparts, but unlike many neo bands, Haze draw from a wider body of 70’s British prog mentors, and actually have an original sound... Despite a few flaws, this is a solid compendium whose highest points surpass the best the neo-prog scene offers. Haze go beyond that generally offered by typical neo-bands, serving up a unique identity, intelligently combining a degree of accessibility with European prog.” [Gibraltar]

“Haze are yet another band from the 80’s British progressive revival, but not similar to any other band of that time. Crazy, varied, difficult to file - an original band in fact! The whole of prog, old or new, is here - and a bit more... Yes, difficult to reduce Haze to a simple formula, and thus, to explain their charm... the whole alchemy was truly unique. It was Haze. Thanks to Kinesis for giving it life again.” [Acid Dragon]

“The music on this anthology, by a band that never quite made it, draws ever so subtly on many progressive influences... I could swear I was listening to early King Crimson, Genesis, ELP, and Yes combining to form a unique sound together... In the End should be on the shopping list of any serious collector.” [FishNet Indie Review]

“Essentially a ’best-of’, but considering the tracks are taken from releases that were obscure enough at the time (mid-80’s), this can be viewed by most as the first step into the world by a prog band from that time who, whether wisely or not, chose not to be Marillion wannabees, but instead opted for a much more individual and nearly unique brand of prog. The trio of bass/keyboards, guitars and drums actually have quite a full sound but their music is absolutely song-based with solos kept to a minimum, although the sound is quite full and the few intros/solos used are very effective. This is thinking man’s lyrical prog with exotic but tight arrangements, a bit of an indie production quality, but the sound is fine.” [C&D Compact Disc Services]

“The music stands the test of time well with lots of memorable songs (many about the joys of beer it would seem), excellent guitar work from Paul and lots of nice touches from Chris on both bass and keyboards.” [Sheffield Telegraph]