By Mark Elliot & Martin Clarke “Those Men”
This superb Georgia based instrumental quartet have produced an amazing 9 track album which bares an incredible standard of musicianship and music construction.
The first three tracks give an impression of a kind of Brand X / Genesis (1973-76) sound but the originality and versatility of the numbers put this band on their own, flying up there in Prog heaven.
Track 4 is much more acoustic based with some lovely mood changes, my only complaint is the guitar wasn’t miked but recorded directly into the desk which really kills the sound of. Acoustic instruments should be treated with the due respect they deserve. Namely two microphones and a bit of compressor. Track 5 is my personal fave with some superb drumming and a fabulous guitar riff leading into a glorious ending. Track 6 was a bit of a departure from the rest of the CD with a touch of Jeff Beck’s “Blow By Blow” but sounded great nevertheless. Track 7 was a majestic soundscape and track 8 ” Hangover ” is probably best played when you haven’t got one.
The last track “Vaders Boogie”is pure genius with a lovely touch of Mr John Williams’ original score right at the end to round off the album, probably best not to tell him chaps!
First class musicianship and musicwriting combined with excellent period production and sounds make ” Time Out Of Mind ” a must for any Prog fan. Robbie Hamil’s keyboard wizzardry interchanges brilliantly with Sean Tonar’s superb guitar, while the Ricky sounding bass of Paul Rusek and mercurial drums of Derik Rinehart give the band more than enough light and shade.
You’d best find out for yourself, definately one for the collection.