#31 - Top of 2018

Spock's Beard - Noise Floor (InsideOut)

Spock's Beard are back with their 13th album (the first since the return of the original drummer Nick D'Virgilio) and they definitely haven't lost the skill to create songs that are meant to stick to your head and your playlist for a looong time. "To Breathe Another Day" is the perfect example of catchiness thanks to the great vocals by  Ted Leonard and progressive elements that have the feel good vibe characteristic of Spock's Beard. "What Becomes of Me" is another instant Spock's Beard classic (where you can almost hear Neil Morse in the vocals) with some amazing keyboard and guitar interludes by Ryo Okumoto and Alan Morse. "Somebody's Home" is an interesting song as it takes a more melodic turn starting with a great acoustic guitar intro & building towards an awesome sing-along chorus. "So This Is Life" is the epitome of melodic prog rock with interesting violin, viola & cello contributions while "One So Wise" is a keyboard oriented piece whch segues onto Okumoto's keyboard instrumental "Box of Spiders". "Beginnings", wraps up the record with a shout. "Noise Floor" is without a doubt among the list-toppers of the list for feel-good albums of 2018!
But wait! There is more! In Disc 2, there is the mesmerizing "Cutting Room Floor", "Bulletproof" with serious summer vibes, "Vault" which is a highlight of the bonus album with amazing acoustic and electric guitar riffs and finally "Armageddon Nervous" another great prog instrumental proving that the band is still in as good a form as ever!

92.7/100

Below is the official music video for "To Breath Another Day".