AN ENDLESS SPORADIC

As the band's first album, I was really surprised at the upgrade from the EP. Probably the best thing about it was the repition of musical themes that held it together. If that was not present, the two and three minute songs would have been a detriment. (I'm no fan of short songs) Also, the fact that Flower kings bassist Jonas reingold played on some of the tracks adds a big plus. But the thing is, not many of the tracks are very good in and of themselves.

Waking Hours- An ambient track that sets the scene. A good atmosphere is created. 7/10

From the Blue- One of the better points. Upbeat song with a really cool keyboard part. 8/10

Point of no return- This one is really crazy and metal-like. When this band ventures to the heavier side of things, it usually goes bad. 5/10

Shell- Totally chill song with smooth melodic piano. When the rest of the instruments come in at the end, it's amazing. 10/10

Treading Water- If it weren't for the ending, this would be the best song on the album. The more this band leans toward jazz and lighter prog, the better they get. Sadly, near the end a wish-it-was-metal guitar solo comes up and ruins the awesome jazzy groove that was previously created. It's actually a pretty cool solo, but it just doesn't fit with the rest of the piece. at the climax of the solo, it ends with an "explosion ending" (a huge cop-out). 7/10

The Triangular Race through Space- An upbeat guitar driven song with some nice arpeggios. Their best metal effort in my opinion. 7/10

Eternal Bloom- This song is how all the other 2-3:00 minute ones should be. Longer. Great intro to a calm acoustic guitar driven piece. 9/10

Subliminal Effect- basically a slow ambient version of the main theme, though half way through, in comes a fast groove with great keyboards. It doesn't last nearly as long as it should. 7/10

Beyond the Horizon- Another slow version of the main theme. cool bass solo at the begining. overall a great epic sounding ending though. 8/10

The main problem with this album is that all the short songs had very much potential to be longer, but they were cut off in ways that weren't the best. the 33 minutes run time could have been boosted up at least 15 minutes and not have had one boring or repetitive part.