RESONATOR

The newest album by Tony Levin and his friends can't be put into a specific genre. The whole album is so very different from the start to the end that I sometimes ask myself if this is the same album when I'm halfway through it. However, this doesn't feel awkward at all for it is fluid and well played.

Break it Down : The album kicks off with Break it Down, a rocking track with a catchy bass-line. I'd say this track is great opener but the middle section drags a little bit too long im my opinion. Still a great opener.

Places to go : The bass work (which is a really long and complicated bass-line from Levin) is incredible in this song. Otherwise, it is a standard bluesy track with a cool chorus.

Throw the God a bone : I'd say this is one of the tracks I enjoy the less as a whole on the album but, as a great fan of Adrian Belew, I do really enjoy his playing and soloing in the song (he's invited as a guest for this track on the album). We recognize the traditionnal Belew sound. This track rocks a lot.

Utopia : Tony Levin described that as his most beautiful composition ever. I don't know about that but it sure is a beautiful song. There's good emotionnal guitar solo in the middle part. I'm not fond of ballads but the lyrics are beautiful.

Beyond my reach : Here's another good ballad. That song is good but I think following Utopia with another ballad breaks the rythm in the album. After this song, though, the the real prog part of the album begins.

Shadowland : This instrumental is all about creating atmosphere and it's really well-done. The electric cello adds a lot of depth to the sound. The whole thing sounds really powerful. Jerry Marotta's drum work is crashing in this one.

Crisis of faith : This song is one of the most enjoyable of the album. The vocal harmonies really remind me of Gentle Giant's songs such as On Reflection. Add a killing and very original bass and drum rythm in the back and you've got a pretty weird number there. This track is short but it's one of my favorite.

What would Jimi do? : This song is a tribute to Hendrix so you can see the picture. The guitar playing is very Hendrix-esque and the whole track is rocking and groovy.

Sabre Dance : I really like the rendition they did of the classical sabre dance. This instrumental sounds really metal in some parts. The Chapman stick is really powerful and drives the song while the two keyboards play the well-known melody. Probably my favorite track on the album.

Fragile as a song : This beautiful love ballad is about... a monkey. I could never have guessed it if I haven't heard Tony Levin exlain that on stage. This song may sound cheesy but it's good.

Overall, this album is pretty good. Of course, it is often bass-driven but in some parts, I do feel that the bass is not loud enough (although all the instruments are good). The weirdest thing about the album is Tony Levin's vocals. I like them but it's not your usual powerful singer. I give this album a 4 star rating. Keep on rockin' Tony.

-Bern