WHEN WE CHANGED YOU

It's really great when a new band releases their first album and it really strikes a chord(no pun intended). Such is the case with XNA's new album, "When We Changed You". This is clearly classic Yes and Genesis influenced symphonic prog. It opens with a short bombastic keyboard instrumental, and then gets into the 6 main tracks ranging between 7 and 16 minutes. Each track tells a story and is musically unique, with changing tempos, themes, and plenty of catchy melodies.

The keyboards seem to be the dominant instrument, although there is plenty of great guitar work. The vocalist, David Hussey, has a perfect voice for this kind of music, and he offers the occasional quirkiness that accentuates the lyrics. Some good Yes-like harmonies as well.

Really a great listen from start to finish and far better(IMO) than anything Yes or Genesis has released since the late 70's. As late as I discovered this album, I will have to push it into my top 10 for 2013. Highly recommended.