UNFOLDED LIKE STAIRCASE

An outstanding album, nearly five stars! First off, like many others, I will compare the band to one of their biggest influences, Van Der Graaf Generator. They definitely draw a lot of inspiration from VDGG in their use of dark concepts and dynamic vocals, but stylistically they lack some of the things that make VDGG so polarizing for Prog fans. They are a more normal, guitar oriented band, and while they have a dynamic vocalist similar to Hammill, it lacks the hard to explain quality that makes Hammill so excellent to some and off-putting to others. I myself am a big fan of Hammill and discovered this band because of their VDGG influence, but I can honestly say I expect non-VDGG lovers to enjoy it just as much. I even have a couple friends who dont like VDGG but liked this album. It would be misleading, however, to make it seem as though VDGG were their only major influence. They certainly draw influences from the 70's prog giants like KC and Genesis, but stylistically do not expect them it to sound like Yes or Genesis just because they are included in symphonic prog. This album is at times very dark and emotional and is unlike most other symphonic prog. All of the songs are quite long, but they dont drag on like band was just trying to fill an album side (sorry TFTO fans). The music always keeps your interest and has many powerful emotional themes. I wont get too much into trying to describe the music and instruments, because I find it very hard to do and those descriptions arent usually very useful. Just take my advice and that of others on this site that this is a fantastic album that will be surely enjoyed by any prog listener who can handle some dark and emotional music. Not quite an essential masterpiece, but nonetheless an excellent album.