A TIME FOR RUST

US outfit Baliset is the most recent venture of former Kayo Dot and Maudling of the Well member Greg Massi. It's been in development since 2003, and it's easily apparent that this is a very well thought out effort.

First and foremost this is an eclectic venture. Residing somewhere in between rock and metal in style, the music goes from mellow, atmospheric mood sequences to singer/songwriter like acoustic ventures; often adding a subtle symphonic backdrop to the latter. But slow to midpaced metal based passages is a part of this package as well, as well as a few sequences with a passing nod to folk rock.

The compositions are mostly twisting and turning in several stylistic directions, but always with a high level of sophistication to the, Warm, rich harmonies with faint traces of dissonance beneath is found just as often as the opposite - but mostly the harmonic as well as the disharmonic effects utilized are done so in an almost hidden manner; with a subtle approach and a great deal of finesse.

Vocals a bit too far back in the mix for my personal taste is my only gripe on this one really. This is a sophisticated, eclectic effort with a good deal of commercial appeal, and deserves to be checked out by those who finds any part of this description intriguing.