CD REVIEW FOR HYBRID DAWN WRITTEN BY PEGGY MURPHY

hKILL THE MESSENGER not only marks the ‘dawn of a new hybrid’, it demonstrates the ability of the band formerly known as Receptor to step up to the next level as Hybrid Dawn. Easily drawn in by the grungy, yet disciplined guitar intro of TICK OF TIME I was compelled to immediately listen to the entire album. As the song progressed so did the guitar work and by the end of this up-beat tune my mood was soaring. The title track KILL THE MESSENGER delivers driven vocals which are complimented by fluid guitar and bass lines while kept in check by very solid percussion. Slowing the beat just little, BETTER THAN YOU has a message that screams out loud and clear with vocals that range from somewhat subdued to down right ‘In Your Face’. SPEAKING IN VOICES (TO MY MIND) eloquently blends harmonic vocals with relaxing instrumentals. Excellent bass lines are clearly heard throughout THINGS I SAY as well as MY INNOCENT in which the drum beat and lead guitar made me want to get up and move. The acoustic-sound of HOLLOW BOY gradually builds to fill the senses. This very poignant number contains superb vocal harmonization. A KIND OF HEAVEN immediately brings you back to reality with its guitar and bass licks and the steady building of the drum beat. Once again showing their versatility, the jangling 12-string sound of BLAME IT ON THE WEATHER mellows the mood and relaxes the mind. With a flamenco-style beginning, SILENCE ON REWIND rapidly switches to rock music containing flowing guitar and rockin’ bass lines and that drum beat that never falters. Produced by AppleRock Studios, KILL THE MESSENGER is a must-have CD! I highly recommend that everyone purchase and listen to this excellent album. My score = 4 STARS