When it comes to frontmen, the Californian neo-prog group Spock's Beard is not easy. In 2002 they had to say goodbye to their leader and founder Neal Morse. His replacement, drummer and singer Nick D'Virgilio decided to leave in 2011. But behold, a replacement singer and songwriter was found in Ted Leonard (Enchant) while tour drummer Jimmy Keegan (Santana) was given a permanent place in the quintet.
And on their eleventh album the indestructible Spock's Beard immediately sounds more vital than ever. Leonard is a true rock singer with a smooth voice who inspires the group to create an album full of epic prog with a solid rock vibe. Guitarist Alan Morse and keyboardist Ryo Okumoto in particular seem to feel like fish in the water and deliver inspired parts and solos. A special feature is the return of Alan's brother Neal Morse, as co-composer of two songs and as extra guitarist in the more than twelve-minute long and dizzying final piece Waiting For Me. Spock's Beard is here at its best and is once again the future. (MR)more
