Recent American prog actually paints a rather ironic image, where some of the most refreshing music in reality comes from artists with one foot firmly placed in pure pop/rock (Dreadnaught, Paranoise, Bubblemath etc.). The Georgia-based trio Solution Science Systems /bass/synth/samples, electric guitar/vocal, drums) can be accused of the same.

Previously, SSS has made an EP which I have not heard, so I do not know if it maintains the same high quality as Daemon Ex Machina. If that is the case, it is a shame that the band has not received more recognition. SSS has constructed a playful image where the members carry white scientists’ coats among ticking installations and cracking computers on stage, in concerts that suitably enough are called scientific tests. The music is also on the eccentric side, the opening track "Work On Time – A Beginning" (which in the best KC vein gets a follow-up in "WOT – A Theme") is straight out of Flaming Lips’ "Clouds Taste Metallic", while more hard-edged tracks like "The Revealing Solution Science Of God (ho-ho) and "We Interrupt This Program" refers more to the melodic sides of math rock, for example Star Period Star. We also find more indistinct ordeals like the montage "Ein Mugge & Schrödinger’s Cat" and "A Thread In The Fabric Of Time".

SSS is a small group of fine musicians who have succeeded in closing the gap between the concilatory and the industrious. It is our hope that more people show sympathy towards the music that the trio has to offer.

©2004 Tarkus Magazine

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