DIRECT TO DISC [AKA: HEAD ROOM]

What an underrated gem of progressive rock - from Canada no less. Ben Mink filled the role of violinist with flying colors. The album is separated into two 15 minute tracks - not unlike Berlin School albums of the 70s. Not only is the structure similar, but the electronic presence is obvious throughout. Fans of progressive electronic music would easily dig this record. With that said, it's very jazz influenced, with multiple drum solos and incredibly intricate bass playing by Cameron Hawkins. It goes through moments of very understated violin playing, synth work and sequencer loops by Cameron, and a few scant vocals that enhance the record. With everything said, the album stays melodic enough to keep it away from being a pure ambient work, and occasionally rocks even without the presence of electric guitar the electric violin can do magical things. In closing, if you want a criminally overlooked progressive rock album from a year with a lot less to go around, get this. Fans of electronic music and jazz fusion alike will love this. Five stars, this album alone makes me wonder how these guys are only Prog Related as that sounds like an insult listening to this.