I would have to say that this album qualifies as having the most misleading title there is. There is no way, while listening to this disc that you will have The Ability to be still. Infectious, high energy melodic metal combined with the clean vocal style of Craig Hewitt make this one a treat to the ears of anyone who comes within range of their sonic output. While it may not be as hard edged as most music that crosses my desk, this album has a certain charm with its grandiose style and lush guitar sound.
While they might not cover any undiscovered territory with this disc, there is a refinement to their work that should gander mass appeal. Their sound is similar to Chicago brethren Janus in scope and magnitude and any fans of this genre will embrace The Ability with open arms.
These guys do have the musical wherewithal to keep their sound varied but never straying too far from the melodic avenue that they have chosen to travel down. Songs like "Home and Coffin" and "Material.Mountain.Materia" showcase the guitar abilities of Al Ricco and Craig Hewitt while still maintaining a radio friendly melodic manner that should gander them some airplay.
The Ability go a little more experimental on songs like "It's Not Division, It's Diversey", the all too short "The Sky Song" and the haunting "The Glass Company". Tunes like these show that they are not afraid to expand their horizons but all of them are unmistakably The Ability.
While I have a feeling this album might get lost in the shuffle of new music out there, it shouldn't! This one is a definite keeper and worthy of your attention.
Track listing:
1. The Sky Song
2. Home And Coffin
3. Sleepwalker
4. Elusive
5. So This Is Distance
6. The Glass Company
7. Material.Mountain.Materia
8. Southern Comfort Is Only Temporary
9. It's Not Division, It's Diversey
10. Jubilee
11. Selfless
12. Listen To This Stereo
13. Driving On Water
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