Finally the seventh album of the Canadian rock band The Tea Party got released in Europe. Aptly titled as Seven Circles, this album's title has also deeper meaning to it rather than being a reference to the amount of albums the band has released. Actually it's about Pythagoras’ theories of music.

One of the best things about the Tea Party is that the group continuously evolves... with each new album they strive after raising the level higher (and they seem to succeed in it). Jeff Martin, the vocalist, performs well, so there's no question about his skills - he definitely has mastered his technique... on this record one hears rather skilful use of voice (which is a joy to listen). The music is innovative blend of American rock with a large dose of prog-infused pop (at times there are some eastern influences as well). Song structures are astutely formed, so relistening value of this release is really good (one feels urge to press play right after this album ends).

The atmosphere comes across effortlessly to the listener, which shows that producers have handled their jobs well. The sounds are simply to the point. Evidently the collaboration with Bob Rock (Metallica...) and Juno Award winner Gavin Brown (Billy Talent...) has been worthwhile.

I can't recommend this album enough... one has to hear Seven Circles to notice how appealing The Tea Party's mixture of sounds is. I reckon it isn't for everyone, but if one listens to progressive rock and is open-minded to popular music as well, then The Tea Party is definitely worth checking out.

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- MAGE (October 9th, 2005)

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LINE-UP:
Martin, Jeff: Vocals, Guitar Chatwood, Stuart: Bass, Keyboards Burrows, Jeff: Drums with McNarland, Holly: Vocals on "Wishing You Would Stay"
Producer:	Brown, Gavin & Martin, Jeff (Tracks 1-5 & 9-11); Rock, Bob (Tracks 6-8)
Mixing by:	Staub, Randy (Tracks 6-8)
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Writing's on the Wall 02. Stargazer 03. One Step Closer Away 04. Oceans 05. Luxuria 06. Overload 07. Coming Back Again 08. The Watcher 09. Empty Glass 10. Wishing You Would Stay 11. Seven Circles Length: 45:09