C.O.R.E

I was fortunate to see Circuline perform at Progstock 2024 and quickly grab a copy of C.O.R.E. (Circuline Original Reimagined Evolving). They truly are evolving and surrounding themselves with virtuoso musicians adding the likes of Dave Bainbridge, Shelby Logan, and guests Joe Deninzon, Billy Spillane, and Alek Darson, not to mention the Matt Dorsey presence with co-writing credits and filling in for Shelby Logan during the live set as she had to prepare for her own live set with Kyros. Also note, Michael Gauvreau stepped into the Progstock live show with some stunning vocals, aux-percussion, and harmonies with Natalie Brown. We also can't forget the un-sung hero of the mixing desk, Robert Berry at Soundtek for his final tweaks and knob turns creating this stellar sonic release and aural perfection. I have the other Circuline releases and I like many bits and parts of those, but this release is solid from start to finish. Andrew Colyer on keyboards, lead & backing vocals, is a virtuoso on keys, but his lead vocals on "Blindside" is crazy good. Darin Brannon on drums & percussion, keyboards, continues to lay down a solid path, whether straight forward or multi time signature prog goodness. "Say Their Name" has an unexpected drum break, reminiscent of a marching band feature, but not over the top, just listen to the outstanding snare work driving even the subtle sections. I like a female lead vocal, Natalie Brown fills that role, operatic at times, her lead/backing vocals and soaring glissandos (for lack of a better word) are perfect and definitely well crafted but not over-used. Dave Bainbridge guitar and solos, and Shelby Logan's bass pulse stand out and bind everything together, just give "All" and "Transmission Error" a few listens, the latter a perfect Prog-jam, the epic 9:21 final cut. I think this is the best release in the Circuline catalog and I hope they keep this "evolving" lineup together. This is an "excellent addition to any prog rock music collection" even leaning toward that "essential" moniker with every subsequent listen, a solid 4.5 in my prog-collection.