RECORDINGS

I wished all the left-overs or b-sides would sound like these ! Because this is what this compilation is all about. Not a compil of their best songs; just a collection of some forgotten songs from their last two album sessions.

There is one outstanding track feature in here. The long opening number "Buying New Soul". One of the great "PT" songs IMO. How comes that this one never got more exposure is quite difficult to determine. By far the highlight of this album. Beautiful melody, tranquil song for most of it but a fantastic guitar solo (but short) also illuminates it.

I also like the smooth mood of "Cure For Optimism". Actually, one would have thought of a more dynamic approach with such a title. But it is kind of depressing. Acoustic and soft guitar backed up with beautiful keys which is fine but the whole is rather depressive than optimistic I would say...Strange title (or was it on purpose) ?

It is a pity that the band did not come up with a title for "Untitled" because this song should have deserved it (anyway it holds a title since it is called "Untitled"...). This is an extremely quiet song (some sort of "Moonloop") in the first half; and it catches up a bit to offer some beautiful musical moment. Another nice voyage. Ambient, peaceful and so relaxing.

"Ambulance Chasing" is brought to life after two minutes. Finally ! A great classic "PT" song with crying guitar, heavier rhythm and very catchy meldody. Another one of my fave.

"Even Less" should have been titled "Even More" since it has doubled in lenght in comparison with the studio version. A bit too much extended to be honest.

There will of course also be true "B-sides" standards songs like the childisch and old fashioned "Access Denied".Really sounds as the early days "Floyd" (but also more on their "B-side" releases if you see what I mean). "Disappear" is to be ranked into this category as welll. Even if its crescendo structure should appeal me, it does not overwhelm me. Just average. Like the melancholic "In Formaldehyde" which is only saved by a wonderful guitar solo at the end of the song. Very emotional. The contrary of "Oceans Have No Memory" which closes the album in a rather dull way.

This album shows "PT" smooth part, not their harder one. But I admit that I like it. I do not consider this as a masterpiece but as a good album. Three stars. On par with the official released material.