The album’s ten compositions showcase Stick Men at their most versatile and enterprising; there’s even some superb vocals (and vocal arrangements). While most of the large following the band has amassed will undoubtedly be surprised by the more structured and preconceived nature of the tunes, the revelation is a pleasant one. The album triumphantly succeeds on every level, with the group even displaying a playful sense of humor, clearly enjoying and savoring the moment.
From the overpowering to the sublime; from an organic, instinctive avant garde, to intricate, Crimsonesque tapestries, to rich cinematic themes and potent melodies, the album embodies the go-for-it, pioneering spirit that fans of the genre have long savored.
1. Prog Noir
2. Mantra
3. Plutonium
4. The Tempest
5. Schattenhaft
6. Rose in the Sand / Requiem
7. Leonardo
8. Trey’s Continuum
9. Embracing the Sun
10. Never the Same
Tony Levin (King Crimson): Stick and Voice
Markus Reuter: U8 and AU8 Touch Guitars and Voice
Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson): Acoustic and Electronic Drums and Percussion