I've never really thought of it before, but there's never been a BF album where the record company and the man himself hasn't lauded the stella lineup and great playing of the musicians but that was very rarely the case with Roxy. Maybe it's because Roxy were well established as a group and the core members at least were readily identifiable, whereas on his solo records pretty much everyone was a guest.

As for IYM, save for a brace of songs, I've always considered it a weak album and that extends to the production values. I remember reading at least once how much BF disliked the album himself. To me it sits neither comfortably alongside Siren, nor as the segway between BF's first two outings (plus the LST collection) and the vastly superior TBSB. It's pretty hard to say with conviction that IYM was a rip-roaring success and with the abject failure of TBSB, I'd argue we have the reformed Roxy - however much some may have disliked it - to thank for BF's subsequent longevity.

Mais oui, Avalon must be one of the best albums ever in the genre of pop music. If there is a weakness, it lies in its perfection.

Mes amis!

This discussion once again shows that RM/BF church is broad & generous. Personally I am a fan of Bryan Ferry and his music while the other members have next to no interest to me as individuals. I have no strong desire to spread this opinion, though.
Mais oui, Avalon must be one of the best albums ever in the genre of pop music. If there is a weakness, it lies in its perfection. No need for a ninth symphony! That said, I prefer myself, at least these days, to listen to the trilogy, Bête Noir, Mamouna & Olympia. And to Bitter Sweet.
Bon été à tous!