THE GREAT LEAP

This is the first in a trilogy of albums from PHIDEAUX. The subject matter is the enviroment and our governments. As usual Xavier Phideaux and drummer Rich Hutchins compose the songs and then bring in a host of musicians to fill out the sound. So it's no wonder that the vocals and drumming standout the most, and also impress the most I might add. What we have here are accessible songs with great vocals.

"Wake Up" is a very catchy song with some raw sounding guitar. A great way to start. "You And Me Against A World Of Pain" changes 2 minutes in as violin,spacey keys, along with a steady beat lead the way. "The Waiting" is ok, nothing special though. "Abducted" has some meaningful lyrics with Steven Wilson style vocals. 3 minutes in it sounds like crows doing their thing followed by some great guitar. The song calms back down 4 1/2 minutes in. "Rainboy" is such a good tune with vocal melodies, excellent drumming and tempo changes. Some fantastic guitar after 3 minutes and the drummer is having a lot of fun.

"I Was Thinking" features acoustic guitar that is strummed and a good contrast throughout between moods.The vocals go from dramatic to calm to Lennon-like. "Long And Lonely Way" has a PORCUPINE TREE-like intro.The vocals are so good on this song that really has a PORCUPINE TREE vibe to it. "They Hunt You Down" is dark with some female vocal melodies later. "Tannis Root" is moody with some good bass and organ.That all changes 2 1/2 minutes in as it turns brighter. There are some PORCUPINE TREE style synths and the latter half of this song is incredible. "One Star" is a good catchy tune with organ 3 minutes in and some good drumming. The final song "Last" has some powerful lyrics and music.

My favourite songs are "Abducted" ,"Rainboy" and "Long And Lonely Way".This isn't as good as "Chupacabres" in my opinion, but I still recommend it. I wish every prog fan out there would listen to at least one PHIDEAUX record. 3.5 stars.