HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

Tiles, the Michigan-based progressive rock band, has been silent since their 2016 double album, Pretending 2 Run. Known for collaborations with producer Terry Brown (Rush) and artist Hugh Syme, Tiles earned acclaim for their intricate storytelling and technical prowess. Now, guitarist and songwriter Chris Herin steps forward with his solo debut, Hiding in Plain Sight.

Inspired by his father's ten-year battle with Alzheimer's, the album is a deeply personal exploration of memory, loss, and resilience. Departing from Tiles' riff-driven sound, Herin crafts a blend of progressive and art rock, incorporating orchestral arrangements, cinematic textures, and introspective lyrics. The result is ambitious and emotional, offering a window into Herin's artistic evolution.

Adding depth are contributions from an exceptional roster of guest musicians, including Peter Frampton, Alex Lifeson (Rush), Martin Barre, John O'Hara (Jethro Tull), Michael Sadler (Saga), Kim Mitchell (Max Webster), and Tim Bowness (No-Man). Contemporary prog talents like Cody Bowles and Kevin Comeau (Crown Lands) join veterans such as Colin Edwin and Randy McStine (Porcupine Tree), making this an album that bridges generations of progressive artistry.

Produced by Terry Brown and mastered by Grammy-winning engineer Peter Moore, Hiding in Plain Sight is sonically rich and immersive. Hugh Syme's evocative artwork enhances the experience, packaging the album as a visual and musical journey.

Despite the notable record producers, amazing guest appearances, and the admirable cause of raising awareness for Alzheimer's disease, the record falls short. It could have been good or even extraordinary, but in the end, it feels like a dull parade of great figures. Perhaps those excesses are what prevented this record from reaching its full potential?it never truly takes off.

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