DARK MATTER

The neo-prog of IQ usually splits opinions in two categories. Some think of them as one of the best prog bands of the 21th century, excelling in their subgenre that is based on mid-seventies Genesis and early Marillion. Others keep on blaming the band for its lack of originality; calling them a Genesis rip-off - though that band steered in others directions four decennia ago now. Strangely enough the early IQ albums are than preferred over these later efforts, though 'Tales' sounds and awful lot more like Genesis than these later albums.

With their 2000 effort 'The Seventh House' the band established a solid modern production style that would only be slightly improved upon on every release after it. 'Dark Matter' is an album that's also split in two. The first four songs of the albums clearly show some artistic progression and are all among the catchiest of IQ long career. I love 'The Seventh House' (except for its final song), but four songs on 'Dark Matter' really have hooks that make it stand out even more. Furthermore, IQ knows how to combine musical complexity without creating a fragmented listening experience.

Opener 'Sacred Sound' is surprisingly optimistic for an album carrying this name. The ballad 'Red Dust Shadow' has some great changes of sound pallet and atmospheres. 'You Never Will' has a nice alternative metal bass riff and overal dark vibe. 'Born Brilliant' has this pleasant forward pulsing rhythm and an exciting timed vocal line by Peter Nicholls.

The Twenty-five minute epic 'Harvest of Souls' than shows IQ going back to its 'Supper's Ready'-influences, creating a song that - unlike the others - rather sounds like a summation of parts. All pleasant parts, but missing out on the pleasantness of a well-written song. Needles to say I'm less impressed by this second halve of this otherwise perfect album, though I imagine there are listeners out here for whom this song could be their favorite of the album.

In conclusion I would rate this among the best neo-prog out there, though I clearly prefer the first halve of the album.