There was a time when the speedy pop/ punk thing was the primary object of my musical pursuits-– the likes of Bad Religion, NOFX, Good Riddance, and Propagandhi my unquestioned heroes. Though the aforementioned bands still hold prominent places in my heart, I've admittedly begun to tire of the limitations imposed by their genre of music. Most of these bands have begun experimenting with new approaches, but in their wake they leave the multitude of imitators who are quite less adept at adapting. So the glut of unimaginative facsimiles continues to grow, while the effectiveness of the style wanes considerably. For a band to maintain this element in their music while keeping it interesting is no small challenge, yet Strung Out accomplish this admirably with their latest LP.

The thing that has always impressed me the most about Strung Out is their incredible cohesiveness. They are truly the progressive rockers of their scene, managing syncopated feats that even a Dream Theater fan might be able to appreciate. (Sorry to align the boys with the most unholy of demons-- a prog- metal band!) At all times, the rhythmic elements of the band are locked in as tightly as David Lee Roth in spandex, no matter what the pace or the complexity. The first two tracks, "Too Close to See" and "Exhomation of Virginia Madison," more than adequately establish the band's technical prowess. Yet the musicianship is also matched by a strong song sensibility which helps justify the band's flexing of muscles as an important component rather than sheer indulgence.

But Strung Out aren't one trick ponies. "Mind of My Own" and "Ultimate Devotion" show a band that's just as engaging, if not more so, when they shed the quick drum scheme and head straight into a driving rocker. The hits are heavier, and the vocals have an opportunity to play with more subtleties.

The production value of this recording is nearly as tight as the performance it captures, which can be a disadvantage at times. The crystal- clear majesty of it all seems a bit sanitized and synthetic. Don't get me wrong-– processed cheese spread can be darn tasty at times, but mass consumption of it has you yearning for the real thing before long. Strung Out bring legitimacy to a slinking form, and they sow promising seeds for a future departure from that form as well. Let's hope the album title Twisted by Design isn't an acknowledgment of the forces which have shaped their music and refuse to let go.

-Kevin Ruggeri