TIMELOSS

A unique and enjoyable release featuring distinct textures and vocals, set against a palette of (almost jazzy) grooves and mellotron chords with loads of wind instruments adding to the mix; although occasionally heavy and dark, "Timeloss" has an air of fragility to its sound-- an impression of delicate sensitivity masked behind the sometimes strong rhythm section. Great dynamics throughout.

The band itself seems very much concerned with crafting atmospheres and songs as whole, eschewing playing which immediately catches the ear in favor of performances which reveal more and more complexity which each listen; there is a lot going on here to discover, but it will most likely take a while for "Timeloss" to grow on you.

Of course, one cannot talk about Paatos without mentioning Petronella, the band's female vocalist. She is the make-or-break component to the band's sound, and I think the vast majority of potential listeners will end up enjoying her voice rather than being turned away by it. Her vocals are genuinely enjoyable, and feature dynamics unique to the feminine voice-- especially on the excellent song "Tea".

In the likelihood that you're a male reader raising an eyebrow over the concept of buying an rock album with a lady as a lead singer just remember-- Paatos might just be the best cross-over group ever for introducing your girl-friend/wife to this unapproachable world we call progressive-rock.

Songwriting: 3 Instrumental Performances: 2 Lyrics/Vocals: 3 Style/Emotion/Replay: 3