Reviewed by Tony Cummings

These one time Long Island music students created critical waves with their record label debut 'A Burn Or A Shiver'. But that was produced by mainstream big boy Brad Wood while this one had Nashville's less street-cred Nathan Dantzler at the recording desk. Could the standard of its predecessor be maintained? I'm pleased to give an emphatic yes. With two excellent lead singers in Josh Morin and Joshua Silverberg, some head spinning arrangements which take in hard edged post punk riffs, lush orchestral passages, jazz and much more this is progressively arranged rock with no hint of the indulgence that sometimes blights "prog". In fact, the band's ability to pen accessible and even radio friendly songs while staying clear of the clichés of Top 40 Radio rock is impressive. There are occasional hints of Police, U2 and Mars Volta but there's also much here to admire and return to via the repeat play. Also excellent are the lyrics. Whether dealing with the theme of emotional loneliness ("Like space between lovers/We don't feel the miles we feel the days") and the stunning Les Miserables-inspired "Jean Valjean" ("It's a battle between grace and religion") theirs is a set of passionate, articulate and often poetic songs. Yep, great album.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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