LIGHTHOUSE

Much has already been written about this album, so soon after its release. Previous reviewers' strong, concise overviews of the style, tracks, and overall nature of the recording led me to obtain the album, although at first listen (previews only), I was not immediately overly-impressed. The tracks sounded "good", but I didn't really think that this fit my "style" of progressive rock. Now, I have completed my fifth run-through (twice with headphones), and I am thoroughly overwhelmed at the quality, execution, and emotions put forth by this band and the story told within the album. That these wonderful musicians are talented goes without saying; their training and abilities are exhibited in every bar of every track. But what really grabs me here is the manner in which they use their tremendous talent to emotionally expose the heart and soul of a very sad, yet all too frequent, human story. I don't consider myself to be excessively emotional, but each track, both musically and in the story told, brings out all of the feelings that I, as a human being living in a very confusing, troubling, but yet somehow hopeful world experience each day of my life. To me, that is the true "greatness" of this recording.

I admit that, due to the musical "style" of IAMTHEMORNING, I passed on earlier releases by this band; I just didn't take the time to listen thoroughly to their music. Now, with this latest release, I have been converted. While this may not exactly be everyone's "cup of tea", the album is, in my opinion, something that should be "listened to", not just "heard" by everyone who appreciates the depth, warmth, and creativity of truly talented musicians performing truly progressive music. I believe this wonderful recording will stand the test of time and will be a true classic of modern progressive rock, and I look forward to many more listens in the weeks, and years, ahead.