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I read somewhere that the Kevin MacDonald Band is “prog-pop.” After listening to (expletive deleted), I think it’s an accurate description. The band itself consists of the standard trio of rock instruments: guitar, bass, and drums. On this CD, I hear shades of Rush, Blue Oyster Cult, and strangely, Tom Petty (for the pop part, I guess.). The songs are complex, with changes in dynamics and mood (the prog part) but are melodic and unpretentious (more of the pop part). The songwriting and arrangements are top-notch but I wish I could hear all of the lyrics. A favorite track is the last song, “Words Fail Me,” with its creative, techno-ish bass line. The only misgiving I have is that although Kevin himself is a very competent vocalist, the musicianship and arrangements are so strong and lush that they seem to overpower his somewhat spare vocal style. The styles seem mismatched, as if, well, Tom Petty were the singer for Rush. (Robin Umbley)
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