Beware Of Darkness

I must say I'm uncomfortable talking about Spock's Beard in the context of a review because I can't possibly convey how much I like them. All I can really do is try and describe what they sound like. The band blends supra-catchy melodies with complex musicianship to derive a unique sound. While melody seems very important to the new wave of progressive music, Spock's Beard's pop quality sets them apart. I don't want to suggest that the pop-influence makes them sound pedestrian...rather, it enriches their sound.

Compared to the band's debut (The Light), which was fairly experimental, this album is more melodic and adopts shorter songs. There's lots of diversity too. The spiraling melodies of "Walking on the Wind" build to an emotional finale. "Thoughts" is purely quirky with its wacky instrumental interplay and offbeat vocals. "The Doorway" is one of the band's most cherished songs, with a killer piano opening, singable melodies, and a compelling acoustic interlude. "Waste Away" is a short rocker that is impossibly catchy, and "Chataqua" is a short acoustic number in the vein of "Mood for a Day". I think the album's masterpiece is the tragically underrated 16-minute epic "Time Has Come", with its slow-building melodic developments and incredibly complex production job (care of insanely talented Kevin Gilbert, RIP).

I hope you love 'em as much as I do.

This album is just amazing. It is something so perfect, and so overwhelming, that it's nearly impossible to describe. I can sit here and try to explain to you what these songs sound like, and why they are so incredible, but it would do no good at all. Ok fine, I'll give it a shot.

This album is probably one of their most mature efforts. While the wackiness that characterizes Spock's Beard's sound is present here, it is also a very emotional and somewhat dark album. The melodies are among their finest, and the musicianship among their best. The standout track is definitely "The Doorway", an 11-minute epic with some stunning piano and acoustic guitar work, and great vocals from Neal. Quite simply one of the greatest songs I've ever heard. The other two epics, "Time Has Come" and "Walking on the Wind", are also amazing. In fact, I would say that these three songs are about as close to musical perfection as you can get. Really. Other highlights include the insane "Thoughts", the beautiful acoustic instrumental "Chataqua", the melodic "Waste Away", and the attention-grabbing title track. Yes, I know that was the entire tracklist. Every song on here is a highlight.

Simply put, this is one of the greatest albums I have ever heard. Absolutely mandatory for fans of progressive rock.