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Because they're probably pretty tired of it by now, I'm not going to draw the comparison of Lynn Stokes and Sol Surfers to the hit rock band Pink Floyd. I'll only say that I had a strange compulsion to watch "The Wizard of Oz" while listening to this disc. The beauty of this album is in its thematic simplicity while using complex rhythms and tried and true instrumentation in innovative ways. There's a flow to the disc that is lost if you press the 'shuffle' button on your player, so don't. From the outset, it's clear Stokes had a plan for the album and it comes across as perfectly as any album I've heard recently. Steeped in the style of that classic band we won't mention, there are also other obvious influences that make this artist unique. After consuming the liner notes, set out on your journey through the varied emotions of Stokes' adventure of life, loss, pain, and release. There's something overwhelmingly calm about the album that allows for a connection with a greater power. That being the beauty of music in the first place, welcome to one of the best albums around at creating such connectivity. This is a headphone album best enjoyed alone the first time, then shared with every friend you can muster. With each friend, however, insist upon their purchasing a copy for themselves. The saxophone work on the album is pure poetry, and Stokes is masterful at wrapping each lyrical composition with the perfect blend of rock, off-jazz, and spice. At times, you can notice a Narada Michael Walton influence as Stokes unites nature, 'psychedelia', and guttural rock guitar into nine symphonic movements of pure art. Not new-age by a long shot, but perhaps newer-age-retro is more like it. I found great pleasure in just leaving the disc running over and over. Each song became like a familiar friend. Grab your copy of this veteran's artwork in song and you'll see for yourself.

Hello. Thanks for sending in the music. These are all excellent tracks, and they all seem very much of a piece. The execution of the arrangements is impressive, from the PINK FLOYD-like vocal approach & swimming murky vibe to the excellent playing and production. The melodies are strong and resonant, and the lyrics all sing well. the result is a very impressive. The tracks have a thread of an artist with a signature sound. No doubt, the music has a unique quality blending the storyteller with a haunting sound design while dodging the trappings of rock 'n roll cliches. Ultimately, the sound resonates with a sense of beauty focused on the story and its storyteller. The music makes the kind of impact usually directed to fans of Lou Reed, Tom Waits, or Dylan. Keep writing and good luck! TAXI