PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

Here is a strong first album by California-based band LANDS END. It is psychedelic prog at its best with emotionally charged lyrics, very accessible yet extremely potent music; it is somehow reminiscent of PINK FLOYD yet far more meaningful (as if the FLOYD had provided the packaging and LANDS END the substance). Many bands have dabbled in psychedelic music since the 60's but none sound as melodious and entrancing as this foursome. It takes perhaps two or three listens to get hooked but once you are, you just can't get enough.

Most tracks often start with simple atmospherics such as with the sound of waves mixed with floating guitars; they then give way to strong, energetic guitar play and shiver-inducing keyboards. The melodies are calm, refined and powerful all at once, and the percussion is tight yet never gets in the way. Many tracks are above the 10-minute mark, the only 'poppy' one being the 6-minute "Persistent Memories". Listening to LANDS END's music is perhaps the closest you'll ever get to a high without the help of old ''maryjane'. It makes its way into your brain so slowly you don't even notice. The next thing you know is you're soaring along with it, floating on the waves of Neptune. Unlike 'maryjane', however, it is very, very addictive. Cool stuff.