THE WEIGHT OF THE WORLD

I would not be surprised in the least if this band gained some commercial success down the road at some point. And while I miss the humour of their former incarnation (ANTIQUE SEEKING NUNS), this project draws me in with their powerful, intricate and melodic sound. It's hard not to focus on the modern sounding vocals but man when you really listen to the instrumental work it's impressive and challenging to say the least. Once again Matt Baber's keyboard work (Fender Rhodes, Hammond and synths) gains most of my praise, but the new drummer certainly has chops and he fits in well with the usual outstanding guitar and bass work.

"From The Ground Up" is laid back to start with relaxed vocals, a beat and gentle guitar before things pick up. Love the passionate vocals before 1 1/2 minutes as the contrasts continue. A powerful instrumental section kicks in around 3 minutes with the Hammond screaming out. The last couple of minutes are so uplifting. Such a great track. "System For Solution" is 8 minutes in length and quite powerful. I haven't mentioned the lyrics yet but they are one of the band's strong points and they are brilliant here. I like the way they contrast the powerful with the more intricate and complex passages on this track. Nice guitar work 5 minutes in reminding me of Steven Wilson for some reason. "In Code" is the only instrumental and it might be my favourite song on here. It opens in such an exhilarating manner reminding me of ANATHEMA's latest stuff. This track is simply a joy, one of those "life is good" moments that I don't want to end. Thanks guys. "Cognoscenti" has lots of intricacies to enjoy along with some aggressive guitar at times. The keyboards are fantastic as usual.

"Day Of Release" is interesting to start with the relentless beat and powerful synths as the vocals almost speak the lyrics. Things seem to get more intense and yet they are holding back. The intensity is released before 4 1/2 minutes to the end. Such a cool tune. "Phosphor" is a short 3 minute track that is very mellow with fragile vocals to start. A fuller sound follows. Some nice piano work in this one. "The Weight Of The World" ends the album in style with an almost 15 minute three part extravaganza. Some prominant guitar in the first part but the vocals and drums also stand out. An excellent instrumental section with lots of keyboards kicks in before 2 1/2 minutes. It becomes uplifting before 5 minutes and the vocals join in as we have started the second part of this song. Part three begins around 7 minutes in as we get a more serious sound with the wind blowing as the vocals join in. It turns heavy before 10 minutes then back to that intricate soundscape. I like the way themes are repeated throughout this epic track.

Another winner from this talented band. Please check these guys out !