HYBRIS

One of a handful of classic symphonic prog to be recorded in the 90's. Actually, when you think about the time this album came out it was a pretty low point musically, (unless you were into grunge, or shoegaze...which I enjoyed) for prog. Had I known there was something of this caliber, I would have been first in line to purchase it. If you're a fan of the mighty Mellotron, great guitar playing coupled with multiple chord changes you'll love this album. Mostly instrumental with minimal vocals, (not exactly the greatest singing, btw) it reminds me of early King Crimson mood wise, dark and sad at the same time. Johnson's keys and Endgegard's guitars are highlights, both play their instruments with a ton of originality. They compare themselves, or should I say connect themselves with the 70's, so right away I'm thinking they'll rip off a band or two. Yet, with ears straining to hear a chord, melody or anything else from the past, I'm shocked to say they come out wholly original and that's a hard thing to do, even 14 years ago. So, for me, it's very easy to say 'Hybris' is a modern masterpiece and should be high on your list of best ofs of the 90's. It is for me and rightly so!