Every so often, the genre of prog-metal will surprise me by offering up something other than the musical equivalent of masturbation. Unfortunately, this is not one of those times. I don't want to take anything away from the musicians of ZERO HOUR because God knows they have mad chops. But, all I'm getting from this release is four guys who are trying to impress their family and friends by throwing together as many scales and time changes into a song as they can. 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/8 . . . hut, hut, hike. Shoulda' punted, guys. Where the hell's the soul?

"Dark Deceiver" just reminds me of four children screaming for my attention at the same time. That . . . or a horrid and mutated remake of the Munchkin village scene of "The Wizard of Oz."

On the positive end of things, when these guys stop showing off and play together (last half of "Inner Spirit" and "Resurrection"), we get a glimpse of a band that has the ability to write some beautiful and emotional music. But, those times are far and few between, and it's a damn shame. If ZERO HOUR follows a more formulaic songwriting style and let there talents shine in the context of a song, then these guys could have something more to offer in the future. For now, they just leave me with an insatiable craving for noodles.

- Rancik

OFFICIAL SITE: www.zerohourweb.com

RELATED ITEMS: ZERO HOUR -"A Fragile Mind", 2005