Schooltree - Heterotopia

Review by Rafi Cohen

Heterotopia, the latest album from the Boston-based progressive rock band Schooltree, is a musical journey that takes the listener on a wild ride through a fantastical world of sound and imagery. From the opening track, "The Abyss," with its haunting vocals and intricate instrumentation, to the epic closer, "The River," the album is a masterclass in musical storytelling.

The album's centerpiece is the 27-minute long "Rise of the Sect," a sprawling prog-rock epic that showcases the band's virtuosic musicianship and singer Lainey Schooltree's powerful vocals. The song is divided into six parts, each with its own distinct musical style and mood, ranging from the driving, guitar-heavy "Redwood" to the dreamy, atmospheric "Siren."

Throughout the album, Schooltree's lyrics are dense and poetic, exploring themes of identity, transformation, and the search for meaning in a confusing and often hostile world. The music is equally complex, with intricate guitar riffs, soaring keyboard solos, and intricate time signatures that keep the listener engaged and constantly surprised.

Summary by Rafi Cohen

Heterotopia is an ambitious and impressive work of art that rewards repeated listens and careful attention. Fans of progressive rock and experimental music will find much to admire here, and newcomers to the genre may find themselves pleasantly surprised by the album's accessibility and emotional depth.