Lanes Laire has been active as a solo artists for years, and as his short biography on the Facebook suggests, he has been involved with various bands around USA. “Resurrection of Black” is surprisingly Lanes’ debut release, and it’s placed deep into the amotspheric, melodic side of progressive rock with influences from the ‘70s, the ‘80s and some contemporary ones. He adds plethora experimental, pop-rock, and ambient elements to his music. He will surely bring some of the big progressive rock bands of the ‘70s and ‘80s on your mind that is not a bad thing at all.

One can feel that Lanes Laire plays it safe, and that in the end his music is not “forward thinking” or “progressive.” But that’s because Laire is an apt craftsman, and he knows how well to make a song sounds catchy, but still complex enough. There are tons of great moments on the album that contribute to the final outcome, which brings nostalgia and innovation together. This prog rock music is easy to digest, but hard to predict.

The musicianship is very strong and the production is warm. “Resurrection of Black” doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it is more than a decent album. There is a lot to explore here, and it’s waiting for you.