LIFT YOUR SKINNY FISTS LIKE ANTENNAS TO HEAVEN

If you only buy one GYBE! album, buy this one. Unlike the previous two albums, LIFT... has pieces that are well constructed wholes. "Storm" is one of those rare pieces of music that the first time you hear it you are like, "Whoa! Where did this come from!?!" The next track is "Sleep," another killer tune with a wicked middle section featuring a guitar shreding away on bend chords, with reverb I believe, creating a huge wall over pounding drums. "Static" is yet another complex piece that leaves the listener amazed. Up to now we have a perfect album. But in my opinion, "Antennas to Heaven" drops the ball, but only a little. I guess it just pales compared to the other three! It's not as structured as the first three tracks, leaning more to 18 minutes of ambience. The unique thing about GYBE! though, is that their ambience is created live with e-bows, strings, and effects on thier amps. No keyboards.

I love collecting prog, but occasionally I tire of hearing bands that just try to sound like other prog bands. GYBE! are completely fresh and different. This album is highly recommended for anyone seeking something a little different to add to their prog collection. Because there's no 4.5 stars, I'm giving it 5.