LONG DISTANCE CALLING

Good Post Rock/Math Rock but not different enough to save this sub-genre that seems to be being 'all played out.' Highlights here include: The opener, "Into the Black Wide Open;" some of the drum work; some interesting variables in the guitar playing; the use of synthesizer and other odd incidental sounds; the jazz guitar and other jazz-effected instruments on "Timebends;" the study in LED ZEPPELIN riffs called "Arecibo;" the subtle Latin flavor and sustained guitar soli in "Middleville;" in "Beyond the Void," the mix of JIMMY PAGE's fadeout guitar effect from Led Zeppelin's "Over the Hills and Far Away" and the elctro-trip hoppy keyboards; and, the variation in moods and styles throughout (though, ultimately, not enough). A good album, not quite enough for everyone to get excited about. 3 stars.