IF THESE TREES COULD TALK are an instrumental Post Rock band from Akron, Ohio. They emerged in the stratosphere since 2006 and now have two records under their name plus another one on the way that should be hitting the shelves for fall/winter of this year. Their also signed to one of the hottest record labels in Metal, Metal Blade Records (DRAGON FORCE, AMON AMARTH, etc.).

"Above the Sky, Below the Earth," is their first full length debut that was released back in 2009. The album is an atmospheric dreamscape of sound. Even though their aren't any lyrics the music speaks for itself, creating vibrant colors and vivid images in your mind. These images are personally of Washington State Rain forests and scenic beaches. Yet despite the romantic melodies there are also flourishes of the power house Seattle grunge sound that bands like SOUND GARDEN possessed in the 90s, as well as the Alternative rock bands of today like MALLORY KNOX. Songs such as "Below the Sky" and "From Roots To Needles" are both streamed with beautiful harmonies before going straight into hard hitting chord sections whose overtly distortion gives off a high impact!

There are some people that can't stand to listen to instrumental music but what makes this album so thrilling is the constant progression in the songs. You end up with a DREAM THEATER-esque ordeal where the songs intertwine and their is always change. "Above the Sky, Below the Earth" show to have intelligence when it comes to song writing with tracks like "Above the Sky" having several complex layers that give the music a bolt of energy.

For those who use music as mood management this album is surprisingly good for relaxing too. It's got a soulful feel too it that will please progressive rock fans yet it appeals to modern rock fans with the clash of alternative sections. If your a fan of TOOL then you'll also appreciate the intricacy of some of the guitar sections. This band definitely deserve some attention for the quality of their songs alone.