ACTS OF DECEPTION

"Acts of Deception" is the debut full-length studio album by US progressive rock/jazz-rock/fusion act Cerebus Effect. The album was independently released in 2005. Cerebus Effect formed in 2001 and disbanded shortly after the release of "Acts of Deception". Keyboard player/vocalist Dan Britton soon after formed Deluge Grander and subsequently also Birds and Buildings.

Stylistically the material on "Acts of Deception" is an eclectic type of progressive rock featuring loads of jazz-rock/fusion elements and on occasion even a nod or two toward progressive metal. It´s close to avant-garde rock territory too at times, so it´s quite the eclectic and musically restless release, jumping from one songwriting idea to another. It doesn´t always sound like there´s a plan for the development of the songs, but they sure are an entertaining and challenging listen. Although the music is predominantly instrumental, some tracks feature vocals, and when they appear they are in a fast rhythmic singing/talking style.

The musicianship is through the roof. These guys play some fast-paced and challenging parts and just remembering the multi-part compositions must be pretty difficult. Thankfully not all 11 tracks on the 53:31 are equally busy and the album features some pretty beautiful atmospheric parts too, which provide "Acts of Deception" with some needed dynamics. The album is relatively well produced and upon conclusion "Acts of Deception" is a good quality release from Cerebus Effect and a 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.