SLEEP WITH THE FISHES

Well my dog brought me this "frisbee" and I realized that I can now cross swords again with my esteemed colleague Sean Trane, since we seem to be at polar opposites in terms of taste and courtesy, as he is our own Lester Bangs! We do occasionaly agree (Magma, par exemple) but Dear Hugues, "en garde!", my foil is sharp . For those who falsely claim that prog is an old-fashioned modern rehash, take a moment to give this cutting edge new prog offering a listen. Previous debut album and "Jet Set Radio" are also fine modern musical essays , let us throw in the critical success of VU offshoot , Pineaprle Thief. So these two accomplished musicians are no slouches, consistently delivering sonic experimentation kept gritty by the repeated muscular guitar and spiced up with some whimsical moments best expressed by the vocal work that combines song and narration. Though not at the same majestic level as Porcupine Tree, this is a winnng formula where modern beats joust with a near techno-trance coating, a slew of interactive instruments such as oboe, clarinet, sax & flute wrestle with the previously mentioned mean guitar (in tone very U2 "Edgy" )and the whistling synth stylings. Lots of swinging moods, meandering melodies,reptilian bass and odd-ball lyrics cook up quite a storm. This is the future, boys and girls, so please do not nose-dive like a train (Sean Trane) into instant dismissal, to each is own, taste is not debatable, Give this a fair shake as it is rather good . 4.5 sleepy aquariums