STANDARD DEVIATION

Electrum is a prog rock trio. This brings to mind the most legendary canadian prog rock band and there is a point here. The music of Electrum is reminiscent of Rush, though it would be unfair (if not a lie) to say that these guys copy Rush.Their music also involves many jazz and fusion influences. The first time I had the chance to listen to "Standard Deviation" I was driving and I remember I being totally captured by the album. When I finally arrived, "Seven Falls, Eight Rises" had just began, so I parked, turned off the engine and enjoyed the rest of it before going where I was going. In a few words, "Standard Deviation" is characterized by great instrumental music, high level of musicianship, very good compostitions, and a fair sound.

The worst moments of the album are probaly "The Will To Power" (too bad it is the opener) and "Appartment Living", which has nothing to do with the jazzy melodic approach of the rest of the tracks.

My favourite tracks are "Degrees Of Freedom" and "A Fugue State", both outstanding pieces, of prog with great melodies, constant mood changes and wise use of keyboards.

Recommended to all fans of instrumental prog rock.