THE PERFECT ELEMENT - PART 1

I like the pictures in the liner notes of the band with a picture of them as children in the background. It reminded me of GREEN CARNATION's "The Quiet Offspring" where there were pictures of the band as children as well. I noticed that Daniel Gildenlow thanked Stefan Zell from WOLVERINE.

The opening track "Used" has to be the heaviest on the album. Opening with TOOl-like drumming and vocals that go from theatrical and angry to higher pitched and upbeat.This contrast is also evident in the instrumental sections as well. It's quite amazing and surprising how fast this song changes from heavy and angry to light and upbeat. "In The Flesh" is a lighter song that has a dark undercurrent running through it. The melody 5 minutes in sounds great, but the lyrics are a little disturbing. "Ashes" is a powerful song with a haunting chorus.The guitar solo is quite emotional. "Morning On Earth" features acoustic guitar, good harmonies and a monologue. "Idioglossia" has some good bass lines and drumming. And like the first song there is a good contrast between the light and dark passages.

"Her Voices" is a mellow song with synths that becomes heavier and darker. Nice guitar melodies after 5 minutes. "Dedication" is a beautiful song with strings and piano that blends into the next song "King Of Loss", where the guitar and piano comes and goes. Things get intense after 3 minutes eventually changing into an uplifting melody. Another good guitar solo. Great tune ! "Reconciliation" is an uptempo, triumphant song. And check out the lyrics to close the song, "I was always on my mind, but never on my side. Run-but if you run away, you'll always have to hide. So if you need to run, run for help." Amazing words ! "Song For the Innocent" is like a prayer for the children. And check out the incredible Gilmour-like guitar solo. "Falling" is a short, guitar and synth instrumental. "The Perfect Element" is the emotional and passionate final conclusion to this splendid recording.

I like the music a lot better on "Remedy Lane" but the concept and lyrics on this album surpass "Remedy Lane" in my opinion. Although I take the music over the lyrics every time.