NOT A GOOD SIGN

This is definitely one of the most melodic, symphonic prog albums I've ever heard released from the AltrOck stable--especially considering the band's members have all previously contributed to some pretty unmelodic, dissonant, experimental Avant/RIO. As others have already pointed out, the keyboard work on this album is stunning; Paolo "SKE" Botto has already proven himself with his contributions to both YUGEN and his own solo project, SKE, but here he really shines--which is saying a lot because all of the instrumental contributors to this album are stellar! Despite the exemplary, virtuosic play on the album's opener, "Almost I" (6:37) (8/10), I do not find myself really drawn in to the song until the Section beginning with the eery arpeggios (around the 4:31 mark). From there through the end of the KING CRIMSON ITCOTCK- like"Almost II" (3:11) (10/10) the band achieves, IMO, pure prog perfection. For me, the other highlights of the album are: song 6, "Coming Back Home" (5:49) (10/10), which has a highly melodic and memorable vocal while remaining full-bore prog in its musical flow and attack; the beautiful Genesis-like 4. "Making Stills" (6:41) (10/10); 7. "Flow On" (6:05) (9/10); the album's King Crimson-esque (Red-era) title song (7:54) (9/10); the album-ending instrumental, "Afraid to Ask" (3:05) (8/10); the unusual 'song-within-a-song,' 5. "Witchcraft By A Picture" (7:35) (8/10), featuring the gorgeous voice of North Sea Radio Orchestra's Sharron Fortnum, and; "The Deafening Sound of The Moon" (4:31) (8/10). Wow! That's a 9/10 average over the entire album! It doesn't get much better than that! Guess this one's a real winner! Fans of 60s-70s King Crimson and Genesis will definitely find a lot to love in this excellent AltrOck/Fading Records release.

4.5 stars rated up for consistency, great performances thoughout, and amazing production.

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