THE GREAT PROPHECY OF A SMALL MAN

Where did this come from? Unbeknown to me I clicked on it for amusement. Their name seems to be a play on both Gentle Giant and Modest Mouse. However they sound like neither in my opinion. Certain reviews compare them to Gentle Giant because of the vocal harmony in certain songs. I can hear it albeit slightly. The music is very refreshing and restores my faith that prog and pop are not necessarily enemies.

Every song on this album is completely accessible to both the mainstream and the midstream. Small complexities pop up from time to time but done in a very smart way. The guitar playing on this album is phenomenal. Although Lonny is no Steve Vai I find his melodies and soloing to be much tastier.

The album length is short but sweet. Just long enough for one to feel they got their monies worth. Just short enough to leave you wanting more. Major points for that. Songs are short with none clocking over 5:30. Which is preferable when implementing a prog approach to pop (or is it the other way around?) When songs are short I tend not to skip through the tracks even if I heard the songs a million times.

This album is a voyage across many genres. Both Western and Eastern music influenced throughout. A truly crossover progressive album. Most notable tracks for this are Evolution and Troubles in Heaven. Jorge Knows is my shiz right here. I can't stop listening to this song. Instrumental with a very strong composition. A very high quality performance. There is a video on You Tube of the Riccotti Ensemble performing this song. It gives the viewer/listener a better understanding of the subtle complexities found throughout this great performance.

Altogether an awesome first album and if Lionel keeps the energy flowing I see them going very far.