ROOK

In the second installment of the Island Arc, Jonathan Meiburg and company hit their purple patch, with a well curated and balanced blend of balladry and abandon. While one could argue that MIDLAKE's 2006 classic "Trials of Van Occupanther" was influenced by earlier SHEARWATER, it seems more likely that "Rook" deftly incorporated influences from their fellow Texans, particularly on the luscious and lucid title cut and on the masterpiece "Home Life". In historic contrast, the other peerless saga "The Snow Leopard" dives back into the nearly obscured past of early prog (think PROCOL HARUM's "A Salty Dog") like a musical comfort food. The above are my current go to's for on-demand frisson. The rockers haven't been left aside either, as the BOWIE like "Century Eyes" hits home and hard. The piano arrangements remain obligatory listening whether you play or not, and the strings are folded in with sensitivity. A strategic coup.

Social review comments

Review related links

• Send comments to kenethlevine
• Report this review (#3196542)
• Buy SHEARWATER music online with PA partners
• Show all SHEARWATER MP3/Stream
• Go to SHEARWATER page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Rook page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for SHEARWATER related discussions