PRESENTS OF MIND

With "Presents Of Mind," Tiles unveils an outstanding, unique sound, combining the spacious, edgy, guitar-driven neo-prog of '90s Rush with touches of Fates Warning's intricate, powerhouse riffing and the creative arrangements of Yes and Spock's Beard. No comparisons to other bands, however, can do the record justice. Although "Presents" is uncompromising in the best prog sense, with ambitious, multi-faceted compositions, strong lyrics, and deep, involved instrumental performances, it's built around engaging songs, not overwrought shredding. From the energetic bass and wonderful atmospheric interplay of "Static" to the brilliant vocal harmonies, superb soloing, and sophisticated time signatures of "Modification," the constantly shifting, magnificently iconoclastic instrumental "Ballad Of The Sacred Cows," and the masterfully-orchestrated 11-minute "Reasonable Doubt," every track has accessible elements and attention-grabbing performances.

"Presents" is a remarkable, intelligent, melodic prog album, and for fans of groups like Queensryche and the bands named above, it is indeed a gift.