ACT I: THE LAKE SOUTH, THE RIVER NORTH

The debut album by this gifted band shows a multitude of influences and high musical IQ. Vocals are above-average, there is rich instrumentation going beyond keyboard/guitar/bass/drum and last but least, the level of talent and ambition shines through. After the first two more dreamy numbers we hear rocking drive in "City escape" - unconventionally developed "complex-for-pop" song with quite elaborate instrumental parts but excellent vocals and harmonies showcasing emotions. At its high notes and intensive energy, there could be traces to hardcore but without brutality and screaming, fortunately. "The inquiry of Ms. Terri" is a ballad-like intensive number. The most progressive number is the unusual beat driven "1878" with a vocal between Yorke, Beardfish and perhaps others. We have a calm but inspirational Hammond-guitar interplay. "His hands matched his tongue" provides another band's face - folk rock with pleasant vocal harmonies, not so well developed as previous numbers but not a throwaway either. Not enough prog for ambitious proggers but good enough for those seeking for accessible and ambitious music.