The first four tracks set the pace for things to come, from nineties-feeling opener ‘How Long Is Now’ and its insistent synth drone through to the electric chug of ‘Scrolling’. That vibe continues with the Cure-like guitars of ‘Pieces Of You’, melding into ‘On The Surface’, which has vocal harmonies Jon Anderson of Yes would be proud of. Single ‘The Dreamer’ changes tack, with a calming MOR, dry ice vibe that casts a nod to Nik Kershaw era song-smithery.

‘Travel Day’ ticks the hi-energy box with a thudding drum intro married to hippyish sonics, before current single ‘Rituals’ demonstrates the Boards’ prog leanings and penchant for minor key harmonies. It's a standout track.

There's a welcome change of pace with ‘Now and Again’, driven by clanging industrial beats and slow, swirling synth mists, before ‘Be There’ and its syncopated vocal adds a refreshing twist. ‘Half Light’ provides a slice of melancholia – that nod to saying goodbye to the past, perhaps? – in its downplayed vocal, before closer ‘Seven Years’ sees sad and wistful guitars complement mirror-ball synth washes to perfection.

(Now Then Magazine)