Search Music Review Archives

Pure Reason Revolution - "The Dark Third"

8.)-a. Arrival

8b. The Intention Craft (8:53)

9.)- a. He Tried To Show Them Magic

9b. Ambassadors Return (13:13 including 5 minutes of silence in between)

6)-a. Voices In Winter

b- In The Realms Of The Divine (6:34)

HOLY %&%$ !!!! This is some of the best new stuff I have heard in a long time! Pure Reason Revolution are a new band from the UK who just blew my head off. This review refers to the recently released US version of the album, and I understand that the UK version differs somewhat in the track listing with two tracks substituted here that do not appear there and vise-versa. Though they have some EP releases, I think this is their first full length. I first heard about them on Laser's Edge, where Ken Golden was raving about them - so I had to check them out. OK - on to the music.

This cd runs together as a whole, and certain parts resurface later in the style of a concept album. It is simply amazing! PRR are obviously influenced by Pink Floyd to a heavy degree, and the disc begins with a suitable Floyd-inspired intro as track 1. After that - buckle in. From track 2 onwards it is a great ride. In addition to Floyd influences, these guys incorporate an Ozric Tentacles spaciness with Porcupine Tree accessibility, some Timothy Pure-sounding stuff, and MASSIVE vocals from male and female that are layered and beautifully harmonized. In fact - these vocal melodies are the best part of this band. It is hard to describe without simply saying that it will knock you on your backside. These guys are unique - the above band references will not in any way describe their sound adequately. The sound is hypnotic, but not in a boring way.

Keyboards take a backseat role here - but they are certainly present - and lend the spacy vibe I mentioned earlier. Guitars are Floydish, and all members do a good job as a whole to create a concept-sounding album. As I mentioned earlier - the vocals are the real treat as are the AWESOME melodies on this cd. They also are layered like Gentle Giant does from time to time, but in much more melodic way. For some reason I want to play this album at the loudest possible volume even though it is not metal by any means. My wife even likes these guys (somewhat). BUY THIS NOW!!!!

Rating: 4.5 stars