RESET

16 or so years after their formation, German act Crystal Palace release their fifth full length album, some 4 years after their previous acoustic effort and 7 years after their last full fledged studio effort.

And while their previous excursions have been closer to vintage neo-prog in style this album marks a change for the band, who have opted to explore much more of a Porcupine Tree inspired style this time around. And more specifically, a variety of this style pretty close to what can be found on the "Fear of a Blank Planet" CD. As the album evolves Crystal Palace manage to blend their old style with their new approach, and while the opening cuts may fail in innovation and creativity this aspect gets better as the album unfold. The later tracks isn't as engaging and well made as the opening efforts though, where Damaged Good in particular suffers from a slight lack of range and some minor pronouncation issues from lead vocalist Strutz, highlighted by what I regard as a somewhat flawed chorus segment.

When that is said, there are many fine efforts offered on this production, and the piano-driven ballad Cinescope Dreams that ends this disc is a treat, featuring neat symphonic backdrops and strings besides the well crafted piano motif explored throughout. Fans of acts like Porcupine Tree and Sylvan might want to give this one a shot.