THE LONG DIVISION

I'm shocked! This band has been around (on and off) for two decades, and I've never heard them before this?

This album, for lack of a better comparison, sounds to me like if you blended together the quirkiness and clever lyrics of 10CC, the lush, deceptively complex melodies and arrangements of Echolyn, and just a touch of Styx. You shake well, and what comes out is a truly spectacular album.

The concept, released in the turbulent U.S. election year of 2012, is a scathing indictment of politicians, pundits and partisans on both the Democratic and Republican side of the aisle. And it is spot on. The lyrics are a wonder, with wordplay that brings to mind the classic albums by 10CC, but even more acerbic.

Musically, these guys blow away the other recent leaders in the crossover genre, bands like Karmakanik, and even Steven Wilson. When trying to figure out which is my favorite track, all I can say is that it is the one I am listening to at any given point on the album. It is just that great.

I really don't want to give too much away, as this album was such a pleasant surprise. Just buy it. You won't be disappointed.

Me? I'm going to start purchasing their previous catalog.