LIFE IN THE WIRES

I like this album, but there is fluff mixed with the stronger songs, so maybe a single album would have been more enjoyable for me. The compositions vary from ballads (1/3 of the album) to brutal - parts of "Propergander" are crushing. The solos, that were purposely absent from "Day and Age" are back but limited. I really dig Jem's voice and he is the main singer on this release. Yeah!! No offense to Declan or John, but for me, Jem is the voice of Frost*.

Standout tracks... "This House Of Winter" is my favorite. The strings towards the end of the song mixed with the gentle tinkling of the keyboard and xylophone gives me goosebumps. I like the heavy grooves of "Moral and Consequence" and how the tune blooms. Drastic changes propel the song from crazy to gentle, nice keyboard solo, and some serious off-kilter breaks. "Life in the Wires"... both parts rock but the epic second part takes you on a prog journey with unexpected twists and turns. This is what Frost* does best.

Jem said he wanted to give a nod to Milliontown with this album but I don't hear it. Unfortunately, what I hear is a brickwalled mix that is fatiguing. Otherwise, this is a solid album that is a worthy addition for all Frosties.