SIGNS OF ONE

Compatriots RUSH is the most obvious influence of the band, but their sound was actually fairly comparable to the style of Americans 3RDEGREE.They use the unusual dynamics and breaks of the Canadian legends along with the deep and powerful rhythmic patterns, featuring an aggressive, young vocalist, but their music goes beyond these limits.Atmospheric, melodic guitar solos along the lines of MARILLION, poppy sensibilities in some memorable choruses, guitar/keyboard textures in the vein of ENCHANT and even some slight Alternative Rock aesthetics in series of crunchy electric riffs showcase the band's depth and mood for exploring new territories.The CD contains only six tracks for a total running time of just less than an hour, so prepare for a couple of long epics, where the young Canadians display their already mature style of composing and playing.These pieces not only feature the aforementioned Heavy Rock stylings or the more accesible Neo Prog feel, but there are even hints of a more vintage approach with clear 70's influences, KAYAK and PINK FLOYD are definitely two names to come in mind through the lovely Symphonic Pop passages or the more emotional, electric soundscapes.The material can switch from mascular guitar riffing to ultra-melodic themes with comfort, without hurting the consistency of any of the presented tracks, and this fact alone make Signs Of One a group with a pretty personal and charming sound.

Little-known but very cohesive and diverse work of modern Prog Rock.Heavy/Neo Prog with Pop and modern Rock touches, wrapped up in confident and detailed arrangements.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.

I am not sure how this band ended up being classified as "prog-related" because from what I can hear, they are genuinely prog. Influences appear to range from Rush to Fish-era Marillion, with some psych, classic and metal touches. Overall, this is an album best described as "heavy neo-prog".

The compositions are fairly complex, with several movements and nice melodies. The flows are nicely done as the songs go from mood to another mood very smoothly.

Honestly, this is an album with virtually no filler (only the fifth track Please seemed to me that it could have been shorter) and with a number of great moments. The epic War (clocks at 16:39) is brilliant on the whole. Very recommendable track, as good as prog can get. The lively opener Ice Cream Silence, as well as the sublime and inspired long guitar solo closing the album, also make for excellent musical moments.

Actually, I find that if this album has a significant weakness, it lies in the audio quality, something that oft happens with newcoming bands recording their first release. Thus a 4 or 5 stars rating is not accessible. The sound product is not at a pro level but nevertheless, I quickly forgot about it after a minute. I think this is an album worth trying, especially for heavy prog or neo-prog fans, whereas those who might be even more picky than me with the sound may elect to avoid it. Pretty good album overall.

Quite complex arrangements are the trademark - rocking, funky, balladesque ... they must have spent a long time to work out this one for sure. Only to remark some of the songs - the impulsive Confusion appears in a neo prog habit followed by the art rock ballad Wise Man and the fluffy The rain comes. A happy flavour dominates Rainbow Elves with some funfair organ whereas Legend Lives surprises with Dream Theater alike moments.

'Innerlands' is a colourful symphonic effort with AOR transitions which is recommendable in any case - 4 stars are well deserved.

First and foremost it's a concept album - so die hard fans of those will want to get this one no matter what. Besides the lyrical side, there's not much of a red thread going through this album though. Musically they try out most styles of progressive rock under the sun, adding in elements from mainstream music and metal as well. Most songs change style or pace quicker than you can utter the word impulsive, and quite often at that. Pop, metal and prog in an experimental, eclectic and quite mixed release in many aspects.

As influences go the only one I could pick out were Rush - but as indicated above the dominating musical trait here is that there isn't one - so fans of that trio may not find this band that interesting. But it's an easy influence to catch in this musical quilt.

Fans of experimental progressive rock incorporating a multitude of styles and tempo changes; often in the same song; might find this one interesting. Others are advised to listen to some of their tunes before deciding; as this one won't have a universal appeal.