GRIMSPOUND

It's easy to become an immediate fan of Big Big Train. They truly have a very accessible, crossover sound -- a band that answers the desires of Gabriel-era Genesis fans who always wanted to know what would happen if Phil never took over and went 80s pop synth. I became a fan of BBT with English Electric and have never turned back. Every release from the band since has been two-lines-down-the-middle solid. BBT has accomplished what so many neo-prog bands very rarely obtain, they have defined their own direction and sound, and created a unique atmosphere -- a dazzling world you can escape to during these bat-s@#t insane, politically-charged times.

The musicianship is jaw-dropping excellent, proving that time, longevity, and a strong collaborative group with ambition can soar to unlimited heights. Nick's drumming is getting even better and I can't wait to see what he brings back to Spock's Beard after this performance. A highlight is "On The Racing Line," a dynamic, tour-de-force of instrumental mastery by all the musicians, but Nick is just killing it with the snare work, syncopation and creativity! David's vocal melodies continue to paint, with broad strokes, songs that evoke the earl grey, old-English world. The harmonies sound fantastic especially at the end of "Grimspound" and the duel vocals on "The Ivy Gate" are excellent! "The Ivy Gate", in particular, showcases how BBT never stands still within their defined sound, always blazing new trails. The song contains numerous structures, twists and turns that always keep the listener captivated at the subtle changes of mood and vocal inflections. The keyboards add a unique spice to the song "A Mead Hall In Winter," blending just the right amounts of piano and synth, dancing around David's soaring vocal lines. It's here where we could start to think BBT can be categorized as a love child between early Genesis, Sting's early solo releases, and a classical folk chamber group.

With three of the songs over the 10 minute mark, prog fans should delight. The consistent world BBT has crafted for listeners is ever-changing and still fresh. At sunset, as we finally ascend to the top of this mountain, we're in awe, observing a vast, uncharted sonic landscape ahead of us as BBT shows no signs of slowing down nor resting on their laurels.

Album Of The Year? They may have it locked up indeed.

Live Concert Pairing: iamthemorning opens. BBT headlines.