RADIO HOSTILE

Disconnect has put together a solid progressive rock concept album outlining the trials and tribulations of local artists struggling to find acceptance wading through a world dominated by cover bands rehashing radio hits. It's definitely more demanding than the typical rock album and like many works with depth may take a few listens to fully appreciate. It's worth the effort for the rare chance to experience an album as a cohesive work instead of a random collection of songs. Don't look for singles to rip to your ipod here; get on board for the entire journey with the artist.

Right from the opening track, You'll Hear My Name Again Someday, you'll find a good example of Disconnect's disregard for standard form. What begins as a medium rock song transitions suddenly into a heavy prog outro reminiscent of 80's era Rush. I'd like to hear what the band might do with this live; it seems ripe for an extended jam. The Most Sincere Form of Flattery is an interesting mix that will appeal to classic rock and funk fans, a kind of Pink Floyd meets Red Hot Chili Peppers sound. If you want a single that would play well on radio this is it; there is something familiar for most rock fans to latch on to but it's still novel enough to get your attention. Other highlights include clever synth arrangements and fine production work in the instrumental Radio Hostile I. I put this track in the category of ambient rock with a progressive edge. Definitely go for the earphones; the producers took care with the stereo image to add to the overall listening experience. The Syncophantic March, Not Commercially Viable, and Radio Hostile II provide three nice blasts of heavy prog in the middle of the album that should satisfy anyone looking for something along the lines of King Crimson. An abrupt change of mood comes along in Tone Poem, another ambient piece but of the gentler variety with Erich O'Dell's haunting guitar chords set against a soft synth background. It transitions into Temple of Rain: a fabulous update of a song Erich wrote during his days with an obscure college band from Blacksburg, VA, The Raging Frogs. This is a great track to appreciate percussionist Brian Eschrich's ability to flow with a song and create dynamics. Overall this was a great effort resulting in a very unique and enjoyable album.