DESTINED SOLITAIRE

This is the fifth album from Beardfish, with heavier and darker sound compared to previous great double concept album 'Sleeping in Traffic'. Some similarities like musical wit and Frank Zappa influence however are still there. In my opinion, Beardfish still successfully maintain their unique form of music, with many experimental crossover even within a single track. The rhythm section (both bass and drums) is outstanding (and in my opinion has more room for improvising and therefore more dominant).

'Awaken the Sleeping' is a glorious opening of the album with a nice quirky mixing of dark and witty notes. This track is very good instrumental track, with great bass and drum works accompanying melodic keyboards.

The album title track 'Destined Solitaire' has a heavier sounds, with some phrases are closer to metal prog. I love the instrument works in this track. The guitar work is awesome with the use of various scales from creepy phrygian, blues and nice major scales.

'Until You Comply (including Entropy)' is the longest track (15:21) in the album. Very nice composition with a lot of crossovers among genres and strong reference to classical 70's progressive music (including dominant mellotron sound). There is Pink Floyd influence in the middle part that reminds me to 'One of My Turns' (from 'The Wall').

'Coup de Grâce' is another instrumental track, with nice accordion playing for the theme, tranquil guitar solo, and frequent changes of paces. Very solid composition performed with great chemistry.

Other tracks, are equally great to showcase the band's musical prowess, but in my opinion, the compositions are not as strong as the above mentioned tracks. A few notes for the rest of the track : 'In Real Life There Is No Algebra' is a nice groovy track with great guitar work. 'Abigail's Questions (In an Infinite Universe)' has some reference to Zappa music (some phrases again remind me to 'Inca Roads'). Overall, this is a very good album for a band that has already established their sound and musical style.