THE ART OF NAVIGATING BY THE STARS

I should note that overall, Sieges Even, while a talented group, are not my preferred taste in progressive music. However, there are a few gems in their repertoire that I enjoy. Most of the songs on this album feel like they are trying too hard to be complex and original without finding a good balance between highly progressive ideas and palatable ones.

In my opinion, the music is generally pleasing, but can get grating at times with a lack of flow from phrase to phrase. If you enjoy disjunctive music that incorporates several abruptly imposed highly contrasted themes within one composition, this album is for you. One thing this album does not lack is complex rhythm arrangements.

There are several songs in which accapella-type harmonies are used (such as those used by bands such as Pure Reason Revolution). Arno Menses usually sings in the higher ranges using vibrato somewhat liberally. Technically, the music is skillful and without too much showboating (although they do make their skill known). The production is good and the band is quite precise.

The mood is often uplifting and or exciting, while sometimes osculating from melancholy or dark moods to joyous beauty and confidence. My rating of this piece may be more a reflection of my musical taste than of the actual quality of the album. This band has elements recognizable from other progressive bands that I enjoy such as Pure Reason Revolution and Sylvan.