PLAGUE ACCOMMODATIONS

In my opinion, Thank You Scientist, are one of the best modern prog bands. Their music is a fusion of heavy rock, jazz, soul, R&B, and metal. It definitely takes an open mind to appreciate because this is not background music. There is a lot going on and it demands your complete attention with zero distractions. There are so many subtle nuances that will pass you by if you don't focus. It also should be played loud, preferably on a system with speakers, not buds, that aren't made of plastic. For the vinyl fans, there is an etched copy available. Etched vinyl has music on one side and an etched design with no music on the other side.

"Plague Accommodations" is the bands fifth release (second EP) and is distributed on the bands newly created - Flying Jangus Records. Clocking in a bit over twenty minutes there is not a wasted second. Superb songs, musicianship, and humor that this band has in abundance. It begins with "Gigglebutton" an instrumental fusion number that sounds different from anything they have done before. Great groove and the brass section get a workout. Unfortunately, the song ends too quickly at 1:55. Next up is "Creature Comfort" that begins softly then slowly morphs into that unique sound that only TYS have. No other band could pull this off. Love the brass arrangement that begins at 3:05. Catchy chorus and the sax solo kills. Off into jazz-metal territory. "Soul Diver" has some very energetic drumming with some very fast double bass sections, the violin solo is awesome and reminds me of something Ponty would play. Finally, the intricate bass/drum/violin riffs are off the chart and the song fades with a cool syncopated rhythm that ends with layered A Capella vocals. The last song, "Plague Accommodations" is another upbeat ditty with an off-kilter time signature. Love the effects Tom uses on his guitar and the jazzy break with the fierce guitar solo rips my head off! Of special notes, the rhythm section is so spot on and tight that it's scary, and Salvatore's voice, as always, fits the music perfectly.

This is definitely one of my top five for 2021, but unfortunately since it was released without much promotion, I think this will go unnoticed. 4.5 stars. Great EP.