Review: THE NEAL MORSE BAND – L.I.F.T.
One hour and seventeen minutes. That is the runtime of the new album from the Neal Morse Band, L.I.F.T. It is one hour and seventeen minutes that will undoubtedly be played on repeat for the foreseeable future. Neal Morse (guitars, keys, vocals) and company (Eric Gillette, Mike Portnoy, Bill Hubauer, and Randy George) have produced a stellar work of progressive rock art.
The entirety of the Neal Morse Band’s (NMB) discography serves as a masterclass in how the heady imagination of these five players can stretch their musical acumen while remaining accessible to a mainstream audience. Starting with 2015’s The Grand Experiment, NMB has never shied away from either sprawling epic compositions or concise, shorter songs. This new album continues that fine tradition.
L.I.F.T. is a concept album following a protagonist’s journey from connection to turmoil and, finally, back to spiritual fulfillment. While the concept is perhaps less linear than 2016’s The Similitude of a Dream or 2019’s The Great Adventure, the structure remains familiar. Full-length songs are frequently bridged by evocative interludes and instrumentals.
Musically, the band is in top form. Portnoy is “on fire” behind the kit, seemingly possessed by a newfound vigor following his return to Dream Theater. Eric Gillette continues to display a frightening ability on the fretboard; his playing is smooth and lyrical one moment, then full of heat and crunch the next. Meanwhile, the dual-keyboard attack of Neal and Bill ensures that fans of Genesis and Kansas will be thoroughly satiated, all while Randy George anchors the low end with his trademark fleet-fingered precision.
Vocally, this may be NMB’s finest work to date. The members trade lead duties throughout the record, often locking into breathtaking harmonies. The ninth track, “Reaching,” stands as a definitive highlight.
The songwriting ranges from soulful ballads like “Shame About My Shame” to raging rockers like “Hurt People.” Despite this variety, the album feels like a singular, cohesive vision. While each track can stand alone, they carry significantly more emotional weight when heard as intended: from start to finish. It is a musical and lyrical journey of genuine importance and hope.
L.I.F.T. is an uplifting experience for fans of Pink Floyd, Kansas, Spock’s Beard, Genesis, and Dream Theater. Its astounding production makes it an elite headphone experience. Enjoy!
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