by Rob Caldwell Recorded and originally released in 1984, Silent Dance is winning mix of progressive, folk, rock, and new age sounds. Already a formidable performing unit for a number of years, Solstice began recording the album at Mazlyn Jones' Isle of Light studios in what was supposed to be a three-week venture. Problems between the band and Jones stretched the project out over another five months, leaving the band with low morale and high studio bills. Despite this, it's a compelling album. The beatific voice of Sandy Leigh, perfectly suited to this type of music, is a highlight. Unfortunately, she would leave the band before long. "Find Yourself" is soothing and dreamlike, somewhat new agey, but not in a dull or cloying way. Musically, the standout track is "Return of Spring," an invigorating instrumental that's a showcase for the expressive violin playing of Marc Elton. Acoustic guitar plays a large part in "Earthsong," where it echoes the guitar figure in Elton John's "Madman Across the Water." There are a couple of weak spots -- "Peace" and "Brave New World" sound a little dated and a little too dominated by 1980s synthesizer. This would be their last release for almost ten years until they reformed for New Life.