Instrumental Prog is a genre with which I am very at home; I often indulge my ears in the likes of Ioannis Anastassakis and Neal Wakefield; both of whom incorporate a great deal of Jazz Fusion. Such as the case with Israeli guitarist, Yuval Ron; this latest release has come from his own band, co-performed by an extremely skilled collection of international musicians. Within this album is an eclectic selection of tracks that pool together from a number of genres ranging from the fringes of Fusion to Progressive Rock, filled to the brim with a near-infinite plethora of melodies.

"Greetings, Earthling" was actually the first track to make me think of Greek extraordinaire Ioannis Anastassakis, with whom I see Yuval playing stylistically similar music, especially in some of the Eastern-inspired licks. As a whole, the track sounds not to dissimilar to DREAM THEATER or early CIRCUS MAXIMUS. "Sayonara, Milkyway!" is a truly stunning compositional feat that shows exceptional grasp of melody, demonstrated with masterful lead guitar and keyboard interplay. Unorthodox time-signatures are explored at the most unexpected of times and aids in forming an ever-evolving piece.

Following the eerily-industrial "Pt. 1", Part 2 of "Watching Over Shizutani Kou Bay" is exemplary of Progressive Rock; the track itself literally progresses by the bar. Funky bass and drums are joined by a long, drifting, keyboard solo that takes us sky high and then propelled upon currents of lead guitar. "Long Distance Call" is an easily-listening dreamscape that explores unseen areas of melody and atmosphere with more followable rhythmic arrangements, and delicious bass licks. The track oozes positivity and good vibes.

Progressive guitarists such as Yuval Ron are clearly among the 'ruling elite' of modern musicians who strive to bring forth the importance of virtuosic instrumental and compositional knowledge, where their works are prestigious art galleries that are designed to have close attention to be paid to them, and be mulled over carefully.