D_LETION

ABIGAIL'S GHOST have traded in the lush synths and atmosphere for a heavier more mainstream sound, and I for one am disappointed. I was glad to see ProgBagel mention that the vocals had taken a turn for the worse because I feel the same way. I just felt their debut was a special album regardless of the PORCUPINE TREE-like moments. I like heavy music but this fails to captivate me overall.These guys can play though. Actually the drummer and rhythm guitarist are attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, and the lead guitarist / vocalist has already graduated from this prestigious school.

"D-letion" is a top three track. Very heavy and thick guitar intro before the drums come crashing in. Vocals before a minute. I like the chorus.Killer sound before 3 1/2 minutes and check out the guitar and drums that follow. Excellent opening track. "Black Lace" has this catchy beat with vocals. I like the spacey keys and we get some power at times. "Romantique" has this heavy duty intro before settling with some good bass as the vocals join in. It picks up during the chorus and I like the finish to this one. "Plastik Soul" has this tribal-like drumming throughout and some heaviness that comes and goes. It pretty much stays during the second half. "Cinder Tin" has a nice dark sound to it. This is mid-paced and drum led. Heavy 3 1/2 minutes in and I like the guitar solo a minute later.

"Gemni Man" is a mellow tune with reserved vocals until the guitar makes some noise before 2 minutes. A nice guitar solo late as well. "Sneak Peek" has these almost whispered vocals with keys and light drums. A tasteful guitar solo late. "Visceral" is another mellow song but it gets fuller after 1 1/2 minutes. Keys and atmosphere a minute later (yay) before it kicks in with guitar. Acoustic guitar to end it. "Easy A" is another laid back track. It kicks in at 2 1/2 minutes and I like the synths. "Annie Enemy" is by far the best track on here. Acoustic guitar to open as soft vocals come in. It kicks in around a minute and the contrasts continue. An outburst of heaviness 5 minutes in and before 7 minutes to end it. "Grave Concerns" features acoustic guitar and reserved vocals.

So lots to like here but the vocals hinder my enjoyment at times and I miss the atmosphere.