House of Usher are not a band that we were previously aware of but the first thing that strikes you on hearing this American band is just how similar they are, both musically and vocally, to CRS (Classic Rock Society-ed) favorites Tristan Park. They are very much a melodic, progressive rock outfit with most of the work shared between the guitar of Michael Allen Moore and the keyboards of Richard Kaczynski (you are highly recommended to check out some of the sublime piano moments on this album). Mark Evans and Mark Jardine on drums and bass respectively keep everything tight and in control thus allowing for the more extravagant work of Moore and Kaczynski to provide the high points. Aaron provides more than capable vocals and I think that strength of the vocals is one area where the American bands seem to score more highly than their British counterparts, as their vocalists do seem so much better. Softly flowing, well-crafted tracks with intelligent lyrics played with passion make this a pleasant surprise. The 12 minute "C'est Pas Fini" is perhaps the highlight of the album but all the material on display is very strong and if this is their debut release then they ought to be very proud of themselves.
-Terry Craven