PERFECT BEINGS

3.5 stars. It was the constant praise for this American band last year that caught my attention and I finally picked this up a few months ago. The music is fairly laid back with a dreamy Pop atmosphere bringing to mind early PORCUPINE TREE at times. I found myself really enjoying a few of these songs but I also felt that this album runs out of steam by track eight. Lots to like though so lets check it out.

"The Canyon Hill" is light and whimsical with processed vocals. A change though after 1 1/2 minutes when it turns fuller with normal vocals. "Helicopter" is another short track, this time with swirling keys and a cool chorus(I like the vocals). It settles after 1 1/2 minutes. "Bees And Wasps" opens with the sounds of bees before it kicks into gear with vocals. I like the guitar after 3 1/2 minutes during this brief instrumental section. Processed vocals follow then back to the main theme. "Walkabout" opens with the sounds of birds singing as acoustic guitar and reflective vocals take over. It's fuller before a minute then it becomes somewhat psychedelic 2 minutes in before some welcomed heaviness with chunky bass arrives. It changes again 4 1/2 minutes in to an instrumental dreamy state as some random drum patterns come and go. Vocals return late.

"Removal Of The Identity Chip" reminds me of PINEAPPLE THIEF early on at least the vocals do. I like how dreamy this tune is, such a good mood to it, very relaxed. Love the spacey sounds before 4 1/2 minutes. "Program Kid" is my favourite. We get light vocals with keys to start as bass and percussion join in after a minute. I adore those melancholic synths sounding like GENESIS' self titled release or "Permanent Waves" by RUSH. It then kicks into gear. "Remnants Of Shields" has strummed guitar and a blissful atmosphere as reserved vocals join in. Very enjoyable. "Fictions" is one that i'm not into with the multi-vocal intro although it does settle back with vocals later. "Primary Colors" is piano, vocal and guitar led for the most part and it's another feel good piece. "One Of Your Kind" is led by vocals and piano early on then we get an instrumental calm 2 1/2 minutes in that lasts about a minute. It then turns fuller before settling right back down with vocals. It's okay.

I can appreciate why many rate this so highly, it's very melodic and enjoyable for the most part, but for me it's not 4 star worthy.