FEAR DRAWS MISFORTUNE

Stunning release from one of the veterans of the American avant-prog scene. The album flows effortlessly from one track to another, bringing a richness and variety of sound with every track. Those progressive rock fans who usually flee from RIO/Avant releases shouldn't have too much to fear - this album is highly accessible yet at the same time has all the usual accoutrements that one expects from high quality prog rock. Thymme Jones delivers an outstanding performance both on drums and piano, but to this reviewer it is the piano work on this album that is the standout, particularly on the closing track "Your Weak Heart" - Jones begins with a simple melody and soulful vocal before launching into an aggressive, mechanical attack and then recapitulating to the tenor of the opening. The panoply of musicians bring a full, rich sound to the compositions, as well as wonderful moments of poignancy - in particular the horns on the aforementioned "Your Weak Heart" and "According to the Spiral". Not a single weak second of music on this record, it is sure to be one of the finest avant-prog releases of 2009. Highest recommendation, 4.5 stars.