Hybrid Child

Ok, I admit this isn't quite a 5 for the content and the arrangement of that content, but it's a 6 for the energy. These guys have dived/dove into this guns a blazing. Palpable power and push on this, with a fresher and newer wave of influences and style. First thing it reminded me of was "An Endless Sporadic", which also seemed fearless in defining their own progish-but-not-necessarily-tritely-so style of music.I one-clicked this the same evening I one-clicked Harken's "Aquarius" (which I also reviewed today), and I think they arrived within a couple days of each other. Similarities? Only that they both tend to be on the harder side of prog than I normally purchase, and for the most part they've both been fairly enjoyable.I'm not sure I'd call the opening 3 tracks "poppy", but as already mentioned they are the more structured and easily digestible tunes on the disk. The tracks 5 through 14 are really just a sliced and diced mega-track, that I wish they'd left as one track. Parts of it kind of had a 2112-Overture vibe, but I think that's mostly because it's infused with a similar balls-to-the-wall, nothing-to-lose type of energy, loaded with lots of aggressive riffing.This is quite hard rocking in places, and quite sedate in places. The addition of cello and Leslie Hunt on vocals helps ground it a bit from what would otherwise be a riff-indulgence-fest in places, but even the cello jumps in on the riffing, going toe-to-toe with the keys and guitar, so though it does slow down in places, it doesn't slow down much. And that goes back to the "6 for energy" mention at the start of this review. It's like these guys WANT to bring down the tempo, but they just get too amped up to do so. I seriously dig Leslie Hunt's vox and I almost wish they'd given her more to do. Maybe next time out.So, to kind of sum up. Super energetic modern-progish effort here...lyrics didn't necessarily "say anything to me" but I didn't really care, because the music and vocals have such an effective one-two punch. If you like HEAVIER, riffable prog (like "An Endless Sporadic" or "Liquid Tension Experiment") this might just be your ball of wax.

I am a long-time fan of Progressive (Prog) music, and through the years, I have enjoyed listening to many talented bands comprised of great musicians. District 97's "Hybrid Child" is one of a select few releases that I consider to be among the best Prog works that I have heard. This band is impressive on many levels. The skill possessed by these musicians is top-notch. Guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and (yes) cello are all masterfully performed. The vocals are from the amazing voice of Leslie Hunt. She not only delivers stunning vocals, but she does so with rock-solid musical skill.Apart from the all-around high level of musical talent in this band, there are two things that I consider noteworthy about District 97. First is the skilled songwriting. There are many bands that are made up of superb musicians...there are a limited few that create especially well written songs. Many gifted bands either create songs that are somewhat predictable or comprised of segments that seem disconnected, almost looking for a purpose. The songs on "Hybrid Child" are extremely well crafted. They all feel completed at their ends. Even among talented Prog bands, this is a unique art. Second, "Hybrid Child"...well, rocks! That description is generic at best, but what I mean is that this music contains great elements of rock, metal, and even a slight pop feel in just the right places. This makes a well rounded arrangement that is enjoyable from beginning to end. There is never a desire to skip over a song. This music is not just masterfully performed, but it is also exciting to listen to.I am amazed by this band. I very much hope that they retain their gifted lineup and continue to release material. "Hybrid Child" is a must-buy for fans of bands like Echolyn, IZZ, Frost, Magenta, Thieves Kitchen, Transatlantic... This one stands out among the rest - very nicely done! District 97 should most certainly be proud their work.

The First Of Two C.D.'s! This Band Is Tight! Excellent Music! From Excellent Musicians! Am Looking Forward To See More From This Band! Enjoy, :-) !

excellent album in good condition.

very good