Pallas: Eyes in the Night Box Set Review – A Hidden Gem of 80s Prog Rock
This is a fantastic new box set that will be a revelation for fans of 80s prog rock: Pallas’ Eyes in the Night: The Recordings 1981-1986.
This 3CD/Blu-ray set, released by Esoteric Recordings, offers an extensive look into one of the most underrated bands of the progressive rock revival that quietly thrived in the shadow of the mainstream music industry during the 1980s.
Pallas are a Scottish progressive rock band that emerged during a time when prog was considered the most unfashionable genre imaginable. The music scene in the 1980s was dominated by punk, new wave, and the emerging sounds of metal, but Pallas, alongside their contemporaries Marillion, dared to keep the prog rock flame burning.
Formed in the mid-70s, Pallas began to find their footing as a band by the early 80s. The band’s classic lineup featured Euan Lowson on vocals, Niall Mathewson on guitar, Graeme Murray on bass, Ronnie Brown on keyboards, and Derek Forman on drums (later replaced by Mike Stobbie). Their sound was a mix of complex arrangements, dramatic themes, and the use of synthesizers that aligned with the tradition of 70s prog while also embracing the new technologies of the 80s.
Unboxing Eyes in the Night: The Recordings 1981-1986
This deluxe box set covers the pivotal early years of Pallas, from 1981 to 1986. It’s beautifully packaged, with each disc housed in its own individual sleeve. The set includes their debut live album Arrive Alive, the iconic The Sentinel, and its follow-up The Wedge, along with lots of additional content like BBC sessions, live recordings, and a Blu-ray disc featuring their 1985 live performance in Aberdeen.
Disc 1: Arrive Alive
Originally released as a cassette, Arrive Alive is where Pallas started to make their mark. This live album captures the raw energy and ambition of the band as they carved out their place in the prog rock scene. Listening to it now, it’s amazing to hear how they managed to stand out during a time when the genre was all but written off.
Disc 2: The Sentinel
The Sentinel is perhaps the crown jewel of this set. Released in 1984, it’s a concept album with grand themes and intricate musicianship. The album was originally produced by Eddie Offord, famous for his work with Yes, and it showcased the band’s ability to create epic soundscapes. The box set includes both the original UK mix and the remixed US version, allowing listeners to compare the two and appreciate the subtle differences.
Disc 3: The Wedge
The Wedge came out in 1986 and saw Pallas experimenting with a more contemporary sound. There are elements of 80s synth-pop, but the prog roots remain strong, especially in the use of keyboards and the complexity of the arrangements. It’s an interesting contrast to The Sentinel and shows the band’s willingness to evolve with the times.
Blu-ray: Live Performances and Videos
The Blu-ray disc is a real highlight, featuring a live performance from 1985 in Aberdeen that has been cleaned up and remastered to an incredible quality. It also includes the official video for “Eyes in the Night,” which has been given a new lease of life with enhanced visuals.
The Booklet and Extras
The accompanying booklet offers a detailed history of the band, interviews, photos, and memorabilia. It’s a warts-and-all story that gives you an in-depth look at the challenges Pallas faced during their early years, including the near misses and the struggles they endured to keep the prog flame alive in an industry that wasn’t interested.
The set also includes a poster of The Sentinel artwork, which is a nice touch for fans who remember the original vinyl release.
Eyes in the Night: The Recordings 1981-1986 is a celebration of a band that refused to conform to the musical trends of their time. Pallas’ commitment to their art, despite the odds, is inspiring, and this set captures that spirit perfectly. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering Pallas for the first time, this box set is fabulous.
The remastering is top-notch, and the inclusion of both the UK and US mixes of The Sentinel is a real treat. Esoteric Recordings has done a fantastic job with this release, giving Pallas the deluxe treatment they deserve.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
