It’s good to have this band back. After a decade and a half of cranking out some of the most eclectic and surprising progressive rock you will ever hear, this Canadian institution took a break in 2005, which lasted six years, and it has taken them another three to release any brand new music.
All up, it is a full decade between studio albums for this classic power trio, but it’s most definitely worth the wait. The Ocean at the End makes it sound like they have never been away. In fact, it seems the breather has done them good; it’s revived them, and this album sounds fresh, powerful and typically enigmatic.
It opens in typical style, the first three tracks being very Led Zeppelin and world music-inspired progressive power rock, before the quieter, more ambient The Maker kicks in to provide a beautiful wash of dynamics. Main man Jeff Martin’s crooning voice soothes the soul and pleases the ears. Black Roses features bluesy and country-tinged moments, and makes it even more apparent that this isn’t just another rock album. In fact, it’s a real journey across extremely varied sound scapes.
My only complaint is that the band flies just a little too close to the bone with their Zeppelin influence on occasion. But that’s kind of what they’ve always done, so it comes as no surprise. Overall, this is an excellent return, and should get Tea Party fans worldwide very excited indeed.
BY ROD WHITFIELD
Best Track: Submission
If You Like These, You’ll Like This: Led Zeppelin, Jericco, Orphaned Land
In a Word: Rich
