TOOTSCATS

This album is a true gem, a masterpiece of progressive rock that will captivate you from start to finish. From the tranquil and ethereal opening of the album to the hypnotic closing track, every note is infused with passion and emotion.

"Steady Lamblike Trickster" is an anthem of uncertainty and raw nerves, with keyboards, bass, and drums interweaving to create a haunting melody that will stay with you long after the song ends. "Sea Theme" is a wall of guitar sound that hits you like a ton of bricks, immersing you in a sonic tsunami that leaves you gasping for air.

Then there's "Cave," a mysterious song about immigrants that evokes a sense of yearning and longing, with lyrics that will hit home for anyone who has ever felt like a stranger in a strange land.

And let's not forget "Giant Polar Crimson Birds," a standout track on the album that showcases Jason Clause's influences from progressive rock legends such as Gentle Giant and King Crimson. The song seamlessly weaves together multiple musical themes and motifs, taking the listener on a journey through a musical landscape that is both familiar and new.

What truly sets this album apart is how it takes progressive rock conventions and turns them on their head. This is a progressive rock for those tired of progressive rock, a fresh and daring take on the genre that will leave you spellbound.

While the recording quality may not be professional, that only adds to the raw, unbridled energy of the music. At the same time, this music feels like it has a secret trick up its sleeve that doesn't shrink with each subsequent listen, and that's what makes it so special. If you're looking for an album that will challenge your expectations and touch your soul, look no further than Jason Clause.

This won't be your average review since I'm not going to do a track-by-track survey or decribe my emotional state while listening to the album. It's going to be some rather unusual thing. Here I'll just throw in a bunch of opinions shared to me personally by a few of respected musicians. Here you go.

Phideaux Xavier: I like the words and the quirk factor. I also like the intro-reminding me a bit of Michael Nyman opera style.

Steve Katsikas: Very cool tune! Very interesting changes! it is even more impressive seeing it done live with the singer switching off like that. it is much better than some of the stuff I hear on progstreaming.com in that it sounds more original. It's unique but not easily categorized. I had a favorable reaction to it. I think the vocalist is ok, but doesn't make me go "wow". He reminds me a little of Gentle Giant.

Ray Weston of Echolyn: I purposely went into with a closed mind and I'll be damned with every note you opened me up. I'm hooked. Cool parts, odd parts, my kind of tune. Thanks again for an early Sunday morning ear opener!

George Dobbs of 3RDegree: I like it. it upholds the twin values of brevity and complexity that my own band has tried to champion.

Someone from Fractal Mirror: I think it is a very good track. Far more progressive than we are.

Robert James Pashman of 3RDegree: It's very creative. I see you have a bunch of people who have weighed in with great words. Checked out "Last Song" video and the audio from Bandcamp of "Sea Theme". I like the sort of James Bond-ish surf guitar but it's played with more of a Fripp-Like style. Almost Cocteau Twins-like too. A nice, strange, striking album cover is a plus.

Tom Slatter: They're interesting. Lots of changes, some interesting grooves and definitely a sense of fun!

Mike Morton of The Gift: I listened to Tootscats today, and I must say I think they are very interesting indeed. I hear some jazz, Gentle Giant, symphonic progressive sounds and a very subtle atmosphere in their music. They are talented and versatile musicians. Their English lyrics are strong, and quite poetic. Good work!

And with all the awesome words spoken I leave it up to you to decide whether this album is worth investing both your precious time and undivided attention.