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Back in the sixties we all came to rely on our favorite
bands releasing an album every year. Sometimes there might
even be more than one release in a year. These days the time
span between recordings is, shall we say, somewhat longer.
And to that point, it’s been 8 years since the last Rocket
Scientists release but I’m happy to report they’re back and
in fine form with the double CD release Revolution Road. ***
The core trio of the band remains Mark McCrite (vocals,
Guitar), Erik Norlander (keyboards) and Don Schiff (NS/Stick)
and they are assisted by David McBee (vocals), Gregg Bissonette
(drums), Simon Phillips (drums) and the late Shaun Guerin
(drums). Now it’s not that Mark, Erik and Don haven’t been
busy, with solo projects, tour support or whatever else pays
the bills, reading the CD’s liner notes gives an interesting
glimpse into the world of music for progressive rock bands
such as the Rocket Scientists. ***
The first word that came to my mind upon listening to
Revolution Road was ‘slick’ and I mean that in every positive
sense. These compositions are very polished, smooth, slick
whatever, they sound great. In fact the musicianship here
is so tight; it’s obvious these guys have been working steadily.
The two discs showcase 18 tracks with a running time of one-hour
and forty-one minutes. Most of the material falls in around
five or six minute range with a couple that are about eight
minutes and the longest is thirteen. Needless to say the band
packs a lot into each composition. Each of the trio gets a
chance to shine with solos spread through out. And as mentioned
the musicianship is spot-on. The compositions themselves fall
into the melodic prog category, where the emphasis is placed
on melody and songs-man-ship. Each piece is given the appropriate
proggy embellishments and arrangements’ to generate sonic
depth and variety. ***
On the vocals side, six of the tracks are handled by
David McBee and his harder edge approach provides a nice counterpoint
to the smoother style of Mark McCrite. On a personal note
I have to say I lean more to McCrite’s style and tone. That
was one of the other ‘first impressions’ I had, this guy can
really sing and has a great voice. My two favorite tracks
on that score would have to be “Castles Fall” and “Enjoy the
Weather”. He’s also a dead-ringer for the Moody Blues Justin
Hayward when he wants to be. The band do a cover of the Moody’s
“Gypsy” and it’s like looking into a mirror. There are also
a few instrumentals including a great cover of the theme from
Gerry Anderson’s first live action (non-marionettes) TV show
called UFO. Cool! ***
On the whole Revolution Road is a great return for the
Rocket Scientists. The two-discs are packed with some tremendous
compositions, spectacular musicianship and it all sounds great.
Welcome back. Let’s hope the next release doesn’t take another
eight-years. ***
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