CEILING UNLIMITED

Let me first say that Ceiling Unlimited's debut is not at all what I expected having read descriptions of them. They sound absolutely nothing like Yes, Renaissance, or Pink Floyd- nothing. So whom do they sound like? That's not easy to say. Paradoxically, I would not call this band an especially original one, but I draw a blank when it comes to drawing comparisons. My descriptions must suffice. In terms of sound, the band blends progressive rock with countrified East Coast beach music- a unusual formula to be sure. The unassuming compositions benefit from skilled but down-to-earth musicians; nothing is over-the-top. Some will consider this "ordinariness" a failing, but I don't see it that way, as the band operates well together and doesn't choke their music with grandiose fluff- nor should they. The musicians shine individually at times, but they have sense enough to keep the spotlight on the vocal melodies, which is without a doubt their strongest element. Amy King has a generally soft but husky voice and she showcases her range throughout the album. She reminds me of Marcia Griffiths, a reggae singer, and Jan Pettey, a country singer from my hometown. I'd say the greatest flaw to this album is the lyrics, which are populated with clichés. I was initially prepared to stamp this album with three stars, but I like to be patient in reviewing- this is one of those cases where patience has paid off, as each subsequent listen was more delightful than the last. This is because Ceiling Unlimited knows how to craft melodies and support it with engaging performances, laden with perfectly executed vocal harmonies and delectable but deferential solos from the instrumentalists. Some will question this band's progressiveness; some will even shrink away from their homegrown sound or (understandably) eschew them for their cliché lyrics. So while I realize this album will definitely not please everyone, it pleased me.

"As the Clouds Drifted By" The opener relies on the jaunty strength of the piano and rhythm section. Tasty lead guitar adds some traditional East Coast flair.

"Dream Surrender" I was humming this song after the very first time I heard it. It is incredibly catchy in an upbeat yet wistful way. Again, the lead guitar is exactly what the song requires- no more and no less, with a tasteful tone.

"Déjà Vu" Toto-like piano begins this straightforward rocker. For me, the drumming and light lead guitar are the highlights of the track. The vocals are quite busy, especially in the catchy chorus (I wonder how hard this one was to sing).

"Cross My Heart" The band eases into a darkly, lovely song with some handsome moments vocally. Expect twangy lead guitar over light piano and that ever-competent rhythm section.

"Sideshow" The second lengthiest track begins with sparse piano in a minor key and sad vocals, but it turns into this cabaret, burlesque-style song complete with saxophone. It is another catchy number, but not necessarily an appealing one.

"Milagro" A study bass riff follows a drum and electric guitar dual. The opening line of the first verse is one of those cringe-inducing clichés, and others unfortunately follow. If one can overlook them, however, there is the reward of one of the best melodies on the album in the chorus, improved by stunning counterpoint. And if that isn't enough, there is an organ solo that's a real treat, followed by another great guitar performance.

"Near to Me" Organ and piano trade places back and forth in backing up "Near to Me," which is probably the least memorable and least enjoyable song on the album. The strings and simplistic rock structure though remind me of ELO, so this isn't to say I don't like the song- it is just lackluster and doesn't capitalize on the band's obvious strengths in any way.

"On Your Own" Ceiling Unlimited opens this song with a bit of atmosphere, but quickly ventures back into familiar territory, which means scrumptious American pop rock with trite lyrics. I enjoy it, but not as much as many of the others.

"Ceiling Unlimited" The closing song, which shares its name with that of the band and the album, has an attractive, uplifting melody and excellent vocal harmonies, and the music supports this wonderfully.