ARCHITECTS OF FLESH-DENSITY

Texas-based one man project, created by multi-instrumentalist and singer Mike Judge.He has been long time in the music scene, performing under different names such as The Wolf Tickets, Jerusalem and Sinthome (in this latter Jacob Holm-Lupo of White Willow fame was also involved).His music background and influences are Jazz, Baroque Music and lots of classic Prog Rock and Avant Rock bands, King Crimson, Genesis, Henry Cow, Frank Zappa and Mahavishnu Orchestra to name but a few.Since 2010 he's been using the name The Nerve Institute and his first production was released the following year by the major prog label AltRock Productions.Everything on the album is worked, composed and performed by Judge, who sings and plays the guitars, bass, piano, various keyboards, sax, strings and is responsible for the programmed sounds.The album ''Architects of flesh-density'' was recorded at the Port of Saints Studio in Kansas City.

First thing to strike is the excellent production, mix and instrumental handling, everything sounds so natural like played by a normal band without any thin executions or digital-like flaws.Turning to the music, this is mostly complex and captivating Prog Fusion with a pronounced jazzy content, some references to the Canterbury scene in the softer moments and several leanings towards dark and intricate stylings as proposed by monsters like KING CRIMSON and VAN DER GRAAD GENERATOR.A beautiful work with an impressive range of inspirations, that should be also compared to REGAL WORM.Echoes of MATCHING MOLE, CARAVAN and FRANK ZAPPA are evident throughout the album, which balances dangerously between light improvisations and structured themes.Nice use of vintage keyboards like organ, harsichord, electric piano and Mellotron and only occasional use of synths, excellent guitar breaks, executed in both powerful and softer performances, and even some surprising pinches of rural atmospheres, displayed through the use of mandolin and banjo.All tracks are pretty long with endless variations, odd signatures and atmospheric changes, vocals are pretty limited and the first role is given to a challenging and demanding musicianship.It tends to be a chaotic work at the very first listenings with so many things going on, but several spins reveal its beauty, coming from the combination of complex interplays and rhythm shakes with the romantic tunes and warm voices.There are even some discreet symphonic vibes to be found, but the material in general is highly eclectic with an apparent tendency towards jazzy arrangements.

A gifted composer and performer.''Architects of flesh-density'' sounds a bit unfocused and ultra-complicated for the most of its part, but this some serious music for serious prog lovers.A genuine mix of Prog Fusion, Jazz, dark Prog Rock and the Canterbury scene with many interesting moments.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.