TEE "The Earth Explorer"

TEE is a five piece flute front progressive rock band from Tokyo, Japan. Their so-called 'European' sound is unique considering their far-east origin. The imaginative tunes with complex ensembles and rhythms will definitely catch the attention of prog lovers all over the world. Their sound will remind you bands like Camel, King Crimson, Asia Minor or even Frank Zappa on some parts. The band was formed in 2004 when... more

Kevin BARTLETT

You may not know his name but you have definitely heard his music more than once or twice in your life. Maybe on HBO, or on MTV, or on VH1, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel. Doesn't ring the bell? How about American Idol Rewind, or Dr. 90210? We had interviewed Kevin Bartlett a couple of years ago when his second solo album GLOW IN THE DARK was released. Bartlett has been quiet since that time but but he has been secretly brewing new projects. A few months ago he had put a new song...more

Peter Hammill, founding member of Van Der Graaf Generator, released his 28th solo album " nearly 3 months ago. He recently got back home from a short tour covering North America, Canada and Italy. In the 70's when bands like...more

FRIGHT PIG Barque At The Lune *** REVERSAL OF GRAVITY Scuba Gear ***

DAYS BEFORE TOMORROW / The Sky Is Falling

I'm struck by the sense that I may be in for a special treat when I peel off the cellophane from the CD that arrived in the mail. I don't typically study the packaging and bio that usually accompany music I'm on tap to review, but I found myself drawn in with DBT's appearance. Perhaps it was the intriguing art work on the front that hearkens back to "thought out album covers" of days gone by, or perhaps it was the eco-friendly case that is even "certified green" on the back of it. Maybe it's even the 3 page bio that touted influences by Jefferson Starship, Styx & Marillion. More likely, I was enticed by this New Jersey band's inner booklet that simply said "story by Eric Klein"

What? A story? You mean a good old fashioned concept? Wow, what a ....well, concept! So there I was, reading this fascinating storyline about a futuristic struggle between aliens and humanoids with Earth in the balance (it doesn't read as cliche as I am making it). I hadn't even put the disc on to hear the music yet. What the heck am I doing!? Focus Dale, focus!

No such chance, I had to read the whole thing. Cover to cover. Taking in the deliciously sci-fi illustrations provided by Steven Bentley... Although a bit hard to read with the small print and color combination of light blue text against a grayish blue background, the whole story is consumed. I take a breather and allow the chapters to settle in my mind, like a good movie I think about it long after it's over. So, let's see if the soundtrack is as well crafted as the reels...

With an ear for detail and a cosmic sense of composition, Days Before Tomorrow have unleashed a bombardment of sonic pleasure. An acoustic launch with electric soaring solos masterfully transports you into their world. This music is believable in relation to the story, so you also have the heart, not just technical expertise. But technical expertise is not in any way lacking. Eric Klein's vocals are clean as a whistle, reminding me of a "too good to be true" concoction of Steve Walsh & Dennis DeYoung. Scott Kahn & Derek Davodowich's guitar work is impeccable. Bassist Robert Maziekien (EternityX)and drummer Jason Gianni (Magellan) are locked in like a peak performing machine.

The production is top notch. With Ron Nevison at the helm, it was destined to become a work of art. Ron's got an impressive resume in his own right working with Bad Company, Ozzy, Kiss, Melissa Manchester, Damn Yankees, Night Ranger, Heart, and the list goes on and on.

Two reasons I'm giving them a 4 instead of a solid 5.

1) We're a progressive music review website, and I really wouldn't list these guys under the prog banner.

2) ...and this point will require a bit more explanation, the music and vocal phrasing can become a bit bubble gum. For example, the second title track "Wrong" suffers from some tried and true "oohs and aahs" that unfortunately become tired and blue. Additionally, "Wasted Years 1" with it's piano layers and silky smooth singing are a bit too reminicent of Styx "Babe" to qualify as innovative. Musically, although precise and punctuating, some formulas are borrowed right from 80s powerhouse group Europe. Just like bubble gum, that gets old and you need a new piece or a break from it for a while.

Just like any guilty pleasure, I'll be revisiting this disc again. I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't. If you're sick and tired of bands that have access to home recording software releasing poorly composed music and passing it off as an album worth buying, then Days Before Tomorrow is definitely worth the ticket price for a refreshing change. Just share your gum with the rest of the class.

DALE JUDAY