BREAK

June 27 has been an important date for me since 1980 when I went out with my future wife for the first time. As I recall, I introduced her to the green party I supported back then, and we had a blast just driving around listening to music and going to the beach. She did ask me to turn the music down at one point which was funny because back then I had only one volume setting.Ten ! I also remember standing on the beach looking at the water, she was behind me sitting on a picnic table when I turned around she was laughing her head off, and wouldn't tell me why until months later. Apparently she was sitting on the edge of the table and lost her balance and did a header into the sand, and she was too embarassed to tell me being it was our first date. We ended up getting married on this same date as well (a few years later) even though it fell on a Monday. I tell you all this because my father in law who has lived with us for the last 2 years died on this date (this morning) at 6 am. It kind of changes the significance of this date to me now as you can imagine. I had this disc all set to review this morning and decided to go ahead with it anyway.

The band thanks Mike Portnoy and DREAM THEATER for "continual backstage passes & letting us lubricate your audience !" I have to tell you that I love the sound these guys create. Very melodic with a very high level of musicianship from each member.These guys can play ! "Break" has lots of atmosphere to open and when it kicks in it really reminds me of INCUBUS. This is such a great contrast,the atmospheric passages with the powerful, heavy sections that just smoke ! The drumming really stands out as well as the synth work. "King" has a RUSH-like intro as melodic and tasteful guitar melodies follow. Nice guitar solo after 3 minutes. The bass and drum combination is killer ! "My Enemy" is where Ted shines on vocals as a beautiful guitar solo comes in .The bass is prominant again and the synths provide a nice backdrop. A mournful guitar solo to end it.

"Defenseless" has a cool rhythm with synths that is contrasted with a heavier passage where Ted singing his heart out. Some ripping guitar after 3 minutes. "The Lizard" has synths,grinding guitars and steady drumming. The guitar melody 4 minutes in is great. "Surrounded" has a beautiful guitar solo 3 minutes in, but the drums and synths really shine on this song. "Silence" has a Lifeson like solo early,and the drumming to end it is a highlight. "In the Dark" has these RUSH-like synths 4 minutes in. Wow ! And the drumming is again amazing ! "My Gavel Hand" has a real catchy melody with incredible guitar work that reminds me of Vai. "The Cross" has more great vocals as the guitars grind relentlessly away. Blistering guitar solo 4 1/2 minutes in.

This is easily a four star record for me. Favourites are "Break" and "The Cross", but all the songs are so good. Music to smile by.