You have certainly read the name of Marc Blackie from the internet fanzine Quiette, but he is also know for
his singing activities in Sleeping Pictures, project the regroups, in addition to Mark Blackie's associate
Gary Parsons, some prestigious guests such as John Murphy on percussions, Renee Rosen on violin, Tony
Wakeford playing bass and Matt Howden for the production. However, don't expect to hear a copy of Sol
Invictus because Sleeping Pictures has quite different sound, very particular and characteristic of its
founding members. Nevertheless, one can hear a few reminiscences of the Legendary Pink Dots, certainly
because of Marc's voice which sounds similar to Edward Ka Spell, or of Eyeless In Gaza, for the tension
and the emotion of the compositions. "Chains are Broken" even made me think of one of quieter songs of
the Virgin Prunes. Indeed, we expect a different music before the first listen, and it is there that lays
the charm and the strength of Sleeping Pictures, in their originality and their integrity. A nervous but
mastered guitar, a fragile voice, almost at the breaking point, an emotional and sharp music, romantic
and secret. This 5 track ep contains all the ingredients of the record one overlooks and discovers much
later, and which makes one wonder how one failed notice such a pearl before. And, as this is the case of
the bands their sound reminds me of, I can only hope that the same fate doesn't stick to them as and
inventive and passionate music lies hidden in this album. A record that is appreciated over time, like
all goods things in life.
To be followed very closely !!!!
Stéphane F.
Summer 2002
Contact and information :
Marc Blackie
web : http://www.sleeping-pictures.co.uk