Kscope
8 November 2024
Prog Rock
Tracklist:
All Because of Me
Last To Run
Election Day
The World To Me
No Friend of Mine
This album is full of precision, nuance, thoughtful process, and rich texture. I found myself listening intently to passages that transitioned from soft to explosive, savoring every moment. There’s so much movement within this short EP that a first listen barely scratches the surface.
The album traverses familiar musical terrain, encompassing hills, peaks, valleys, and mountains, but it also touches on contemporary themes, exemplified by “Election Day.” Additionally, I appreciate the meticulous mixing. Each element has its distinct role, and nothing gets lost in the sonic mix.
As a guitarist myself, I was particularly drawn to the subtle guitar work that seamlessly integrates into larger, more aggressive sections. This is one of the reasons I initially fell in love with their music around 2016.
The album opens with “All Because Of Me,” the shortest track, which maintains constant motion. It evokes the classic Pineapple Thief sound blended with the early Radiohead albums.
“Last To Run” is a standout track, comparable to the intensity of “Your Wilderness.” The percussion takes center stage from the outset, with drums and bass driving the rhythm. The guitars transition from subtle accompaniment to a driving force during the middle section, punctuated by a soaring slide solo (or so it seems to me). The harmonies are impeccable, and the song maintains momentum throughout. I particularly enjoy the varied textures and the way each instrument, including the vocals, has its own space to breathe. This is undoubtedly my favorite track on the album.
“Election Day” juxtaposes dissonant keys with a lively beat, creating a sense of urgency that mirrors the act of voting. I appreciate the song’s textures and overall mood. The contrasting melodic lines, with the keys providing a counterpoint to the heavy metal-inspired guitar work, create a compelling dynamic.
“The World To Me” shifts to a major key and opens with a full-band arrangement, a refreshing departure from the previous tracks. It’s another head-nodding tune, featuring a prominent 80s-inspired synth that blends seamlessly with the overall sound. The layered instrumentation in the middle section evokes a classic prog rock feel, setting it apart from other TPT albums. The abrupt ending is a surprising and effective touch.
The album concludes with “No Friend Of Mine,” which immediately captivates with its staccato rhythm, evident in the guitars, drums, bass, and even the vocals. It has a somewhat Pink Floyd-esque quality, albeit with a more driving and dynamic approach. The synth and guitar sounds evoke both Floyd and Porcupine Tree influences, a fitting combination given Gavin Harrison’s drumming prowess.
Despite its brevity, this album is highly engaging and enjoyable. It leaves me wanting more. If this is a glimpse into the future of TPT’s explorations, I’m eager to see where they go next.
I’m looking forward to their North American tour in Fall 2024.
Written by: Chris Rugowski
Ratings: 9/10
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