BRIEF NOCTURNES AND DREAMLESS SLEEP

Spock's beard released the strongest album since Neal Morse's departure and it is an ear candy from the beginning. While it's melodies and good sound that captures your attention in the first listen, you'll get to the strong instrumental sections soon. The album borders with progressive metal during some riffs but also shows melodic pop elements - "Hiding out" is the good example of both. "I know your secret" starts with friendly synth motive and irregular drum beat reminding us of classic SP sound. The verses are fast running drums with a solid metal riff however I prefer the chorus with the synths. "A treasure abandoned" is a great composition with emotions, this time without flashy moves leaving textures and nuances to Ryo. "Submerged" is a radio friendly your-progressive-rock-girlfriend song which you keep humming. "Afterthoughts" could well come from Transatlantic, in particular singing reminds me of Morse + Stolt cooperation.

The last track is joined by Mr. Neal Morse and the melody could well come from him. The Genesis like dreamy beginning is soon turned into energetic song. Let's mention the Pink Floyd inspired mellow instrumental part with excellent guitar playing followed by exquisite synth solo. The overture of this title is a blown symphonic 2-minute work, the way only SP or Transatlantic can do it.

From the bonus tracks, I want to highlight the fully instrumental "Postcards from perdition".

A truly well baked work.