The Beyond - Crawl (CD)

All Music Guide

If Rush had decided to tackle thrash metal, they may have sounded like The Beyond, whose incredibly well-executed debut Crawl showed enough promise for EMI to resurrect their legendary '70s progressive rock imprint Harvest especially for its release. Unfortunately, public opinion was not so kind. The bottom line is that despite the group's mind-boggling combination of brainiac lyrics, jagged guitar acrobatics, funky bass slapping and astounding poly-rhythms, the songs on Crawl leave almost no lasting impression. "No More Happy Ever Afters," "The Eve of My Release," and "Everybody Wins" feature occasional highlights, but the most memorable tunes ("Sick" and "Dominoes") stand out mostly because of their uncharacteristic simplicity and actual breathing room. And John Whitby's very indistinctive vocals certainly don't help. Still, for those keen on progressive explorations and detailed precision, the album will provide extended discovery.

- Ed Rivadavia, All Music Guide