The epitome of the self, the uncontested and resolute will of the ego and its infinite resilience-such is the subject at hand in reference to solo artists and their endeavors; however, very few artists are able to make quite the impression as is commanded by a full scale band, and yet the creation known as "HIGH SPIRITS," has managed exactly that. The brainchild of, Chris Black, the band has just managed its 4th release, "Hard To Stop," and yes, in fact, it certainly is.

"Hard To Stop" begins with a lead in riff coupled with some drums and chords, in that small stead of time wherein the instruments cease progression and halt in their tracks it feels that the song is experiencing its first full breath, and life is given to the album as "Since You've Been Gone," comes full force into motion. "Restless" comes next, a rising melody in the wake of its predecessor, the verse launches with a start carried by the triumphant vocals to an even more energetic chorus. "Hearts Will Burn" conveys this sense of the unknown coupled with an unyielding resilience, the detraction of the final chorus is a bit odd as it just jumps in and out of loud and quiet, but otherwise the song is quite motivating. "Voice In The Wind" starts with only guitar and voice, eventually the other instruments join in, but the fragility of the soundscape reminds the listener of the astounding ipso facto that the song is the conception and performance of one person alone. The final track, "We Are Everywhere," begins in a rush leaving no room for buildup or suspense, making this song as in-your-face as it gets.

The whole of the album has a fascinating feel and sound to it, whereupon it becomes impossible to discern that one person is the sole responsibility for the sound that you hear; the instruments within are so crisp, clean, and clear that it feels almost as a live performance you're sitting in front of. The guitars are designed to have an almost classic sound to them, though a bit more nuanced to modern construction; the bass is incredibly rich and serves to provide lower end for the tracks, never straying beyond its design; the drums are tight, simple, and succinct; and of course the vocal are powerful, reaching, and large in shape and design, almost as if they fill an even larger section than all of the instrumentation combined.

This album was something unique and powerful, another defiance to the notion of a full band, and a testament to the power of the self. While the album could have greatly benefited in length by the addition of one more track the collection is still a great and concise one sitting somewhere between Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, and anyone with an affinity towards either is in for a pretty fine listen.