On this release, the base quartet augments its rock vernacular with keys, electronic performers, and strings on this most interesting release, as the musicians' broad vernacular features a stylistic fusion of progressive rock, art rock, late-'60s psychedelia, urban folk, and so on. One of the sometimes-unusual characteristics of the band's makeover has to do with Chris Warland's understated vocals, whereas the group pursues dreamy riffs with the hard-edged dynamics of progressive rock icons
King Crimson,
Yes, and other products of the early '70s. At times, the group morphs their sound with a distinct sense of Americana, with odd-metered time signatures and blaring guitar parts, while also perpetuating pleasingly melodic choruses. On pieces such as "Barefoot Hymn (Bluebird Reader)," guitarist Nathaniel Braddock's crunch chords provide a noticeable contrast to Warland's whispery but slightly out-of-key vocals. Nonetheless, they elicit a vibe and sound that covers a lot of musical terrain. And with all of the humdrum rock ensembles flooding the scene, this outfit stands tall among its peers. Hence, a comprehensively entertaining listening experience from a consortium of musicians who are not content with parroting the tried and true. ~ Glenn Astarita