PRESENTS OF MIND

This is a really pleasant surprise. Tiles is an outfit from the USA which play heavy rock with strong prog influences, sometimes it might even get close to the prog metal genre. I still feel that it's primarily hard rock, and not metal, and in this case I think that distinction is very important.

It would also be very unfair to categorise Tiles as a Rush clone. The bass reminds me of Geddy from time to time and the tight interplay is also a Rush trademark. However, these guys are playing their own music and their true talent lie in that they so successfully blend genres, without leaving any elements out, and still manage to produce such a consistent album.

I love the voice of Paul Rarick. It's so clean and emotional and yet so stunningly beautiful, lifting many of the songs to the masterpiece status they deserve. Another highlight is Jeff Whittle's basslines. I can listen to nothing but them throughout the album. Never boring! But on the other hand, the guitarist Chris Herin can pull off both powerhouse riffing and delicate work with a banjo or a mandolin. Oh, and Pat DeLeon! Varied, powerful and sometimes intricate drumming.

Coming to think of it, this is a great group effort, just as it should be. No member overshadows the others with godlike skills, making the band Person X and his backing band. This is bunch of people having fun together and that's something you notice in the music. Highly recommended!

Highlights: Static, Safe Procedures, Reasonable Doubt