FREQUENCY

27 years after their debut album UK veterans IQ show that they are still a band with the capabilities to create solid albums. And while they aren't exactly covering new grounds here, the territories covered are done so in an excellent manner.

Symphonic prog of the atmospheric variety is the name of the game here, with warm, rich multiple layeres of keys and synths as a key feature. From the piano via organ and mellotron to what I suspect are modern synths, the dreamy, rich tapestries produced by the variety of tangents are utilized in a manner few others are able to. The sound is full of life in a way few others are able to replicate. And with the other strong aspect of this band's output, the distinct emotional yet slightly detached lead vocals, these two dominating aspects conjure up distinct and strong moods between them.

Whether utilized in darker sounding themes or lighter ventures, supported by crunchy guitars or wandering light guitar licks, it's these two elements that carry this venture. And while the truly stuning and superior efforts may not be around this time - the ballad Life Support actually being closest to this as far as I'm concerned - this is a strong album nontheless, and one that will be appreciated by fans of this act as well as followers of Neo-Progressive rock in general. Rock solid from start to finish, but no diamonds this time around.