COLOR OF SPACE

My first reaction to listening to this record the first time was almost shock at how much the vocalist sounded like mid-eighties Geddy. And it wasn't just the vocals the singer also plays bass and plays it a lot like Geddy does. Besides a definite RUSH sound I think these guys also have a MARILLION influence. After many listens I can hear the differences between Geddy's vocals and Andrew's vocals now and actually prefer Andrews. Funny enough I also like this record better than a lot of the mid to late eighties RUSH albums.This one isn't as polished or as well produced but it's more upbeat. And as far as the instrumental work of these guys goes they are amazing. Even the lyrics are well above average.

The first track "Ripple In Time" is a mid paced, upbeat tune that brings RUSH to mind right away. It's on the light side. "Mars Direct" is an instrumental with a good guitar melody to open. I really like the drumming and this song. "Ebb And Flow" is filled with synths giving it a real eighties feel. Good tune."Who We Are" is mellow to open with reserved vocals and piano. Guitar and synths come in as it becomes a mid paced and at times intense song.

"Strange Attraction" has lots of tempo shifts with a powerful instrumental section that comes and goes. "Lenses" is the epic at over 15 minutes in length. Synths burst into the spacey intro and some great bass work is again a highlight. Some really good lead guitar as the bass throbs. Nice.This song features a few great sections of fat, throbbing bass especially when it is combined with the synths later in the song, although 14 minutes in the bass and drum melody may even top that.

It's too bad the the singer / bass player left after this one although his leaving sure helped the band capure and define their own sound more, and in the process distanced themselves from the RUSH copy cat allegations. I can easily recommend this one to any of you eighties RUSH fans out there. 3.5 stars.