THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS

A little step forward compared to their previous album "Beware Of Darkness" (1996). SPOCK'S BEARD is one of the better new progressive bands, and they have never released a bad album so far. Their strength is there strong melodies combined with intelligent and complex arrangements. They're also excellent musicians and Neal MORSE is a master composer. I'm happy to hear that the Mellotron and Hammond organ is still present along with the Cello. Nice stuff! On this third studio release from the band, the GENTLE GIANT similarities aren't that obvious any longer. Those parts are practically all gone, apart from some moments on the tracks "In The Mouth Of Madness" and "Flow". They are taking a step towards a more personal style, even though they're still comparable to YES, GENESIS and PINK FLOYD. The highlights on this release is the opening 3 part track "The Good Don't Last" and "In The Mouth Of Madness" where Neal MORSE's singing is reminiscent to Roine STOLT of FLOWER KINGS. There's also a surprisingly good power ballad that is called "June". The track is working its way from a quiet opening to a mighty climax in the final. Maybe this track could be something for the more open-minded radio stations. The final highlight is the closing 3-part song "The Flow". If I have mentioned the highlights, I think it's fair to mention the tracks that made the rating go down a little bit. It's mainly because of two tracks: "Cakewalk On Easy Street" and "Strange World", two rather mainstream progressive rock pieces. This is one of the better CD's released in 1997, and I highly recommend it. You ought to check out their previous releases too, as they're all great pieces of work and should be an essential part in your collection.