The Tea Party – never heard of them? Well you should have as they are a platinum band in their home territory of Canada. This is their 6th studio album (including their independent debut in 1991) and was actually released back in August 2004 in Canada entering the album charts at number 5. Why has it taken so long to see an official release in Europe?

The line up of the band remains unchanged with Jeff Martin on vocals and guitar, Stuart Chatwood on bass and keyboards and Jeff Burrows on drums. The bands sound has remained fairly consistent over the years featuring intense riffing mixed with Eastern mysticism (Led Zeppelin comparisons are always made).

“Intrazone Mantras”, their previous album was released way back in 2001. The intervening delay was mainly due to the death of their manager Steve Hoffman to whom the song “Oceans” is dedicated. This is a big ballad number which ends up sounding too much like U2 with violins for my liking.

The album opener “Writing’s On The Wall” blasts away the cobwebs in under 3 minutes. “Overload” and “Coming Back Again” are classic Tea Party numbers with acoustic interludes and heavy riffing.

The mentioned Eastern mysticism has been reined back on the album but when used the results are outstanding as on “Luxuria” which features Dead Can Dance backing vocals and a tribal drum beat. “Wishing You Would Stay” features fellow Canadian Holly McNarland on joint vocals and is another standout number.

“Empty Glass” is a Tea Party by numbers tracks which is a tribute to David Bowie. Things finish with the epic title track in true Tea Party style.

Overall – Classic Tea Party album but with less Eastern influence and a bit more commercialism creeping in.

****½

Review by Phil Berisford

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly