Life in the Wires
Frost* give their melodies plenty of space to develop on Life in the Wires. The British band’s fifth album is a long, ambitious double release, with guitar and keyboard solos returning to the foreground. Its complex arrangements are often impressive, but the clear vocal writing is just as important to making the whole record work.
The story follows a character trying to escape a controlled future society after discovering a voice on an old radio. It gives the songs a connection without making the music depend entirely on the plot. Jem Godfrey handles most of the lead singing, supported by John Mitchell’s guitar, Nathan King’s bass and Craig Blundell’s drums. The band move comfortably between modern keyboard sounds, heavier playing and quieter piano-led sections.
“The Solid State Orchestra” and “Evaporator” show how well the detailed arrangements can sit beside memorable melodies. The songs are busy without making the voices feel unnecessary. “Moral and Consequence” offers another extended piece, while the two parts of the title track give recurring ideas room to return and change. That connection helps the longer format feel planned rather than simply generous.
The quieter tracks provide useful changes in scale. “Absent Friends” and “Sign of Life” put a gentler melodic approach forward, giving listeners a break from the more complex material. “Propergander” moves the other way, bringing a heavier edge to the guitars. The variety matters because the album asks for a substantial amount of time and attention.
The second part of “Life in the Wires” lasts nearly sixteen minutes and makes a particularly large statement. Its changing sections suit the band’s interest in longer forms, although the amount of detail can be overwhelming. The more reflective “Starting Fires” then gives the album a calmer ending. It is a useful choice after so much movement.
Not every listener will want a progressive rock album on this scale. Some ideas need time to settle, and the full journey is less immediate than its strongest melodies suggest. Yet the combination of clear songs, strong playing and meaningful contrasts makes Life in the Wires convincing. The ambition is supported by enough substance to justify following it through.
