DEEVOLUTION

The newest incarnation of the Tipton brothers, "Cynthesis" creates a sound that is more in line with melodic prog rock than their previous work under "Zero Hour", which favoured a more technical metal approach. That's not to say "Cynthesis" is lacking technical aspects - there are still moments of jaw-dropping musicianship - but it would be fair to say the focus has shifted a little.

"DeEvolution" is the first in a series of sci-fi concept albums that follows the story of a tribal shaman captured and taken within an industrialised city. I won't go further into the story, as it's one of the joys of listening to a concept album like this to hear it unfold, but suffice to say the story is intriguing and provides an appetite for subsequent instalments.

There's also a great maturity in the songwriting on this album. Always capable of creating mesmerizing riffs and effortlessly fusing complex time signatures, Jasun Tipton here shows that he's also more than adequately equipped to fashion sublime atmospheres and simpler melodies.

Troy Tipton also gives another stellar performance on this album. This guy has to be one of my favourite bassists going around. Not content to punch out by-the-numbers basslines, Troy utilises all of his skills to come up with some really satisfying phrases. Especially of note is his use of the 'dusty end' of the fretboard in songs such as "Incision".

Erik Rosvold, absent from "Zero Hour" for many years, makes a welcome return here. There's a number of emotions and vocal styles delivered across "DeEvolution", and Rosvold handles them all with aplomb. There are moments, especially as things ramp up towards the end of the album, where Rosvold's voice is spine tingling. Add to the mix Sean Flanegan, the perfect foil for Troy Tipton in the engine room, and this really does amount to a killer lineup.

There's not a single fault to point out on this album. From writing and production to performances, it all works. At around 45 minutes, the album contains not a trace of filler and at the same time doesn't outstay it's welcome. Fans of concept albums, melodic prog or anyone who wants to hear some fantastic musicians at the top of their game should check these guys out.