Artist: People In Planes
Album: Beyond the Horizon
Release: September 9, 2008
Label: Wind-up Records
Rating: 8 of 10
Web Site: http://www.peopleinplanes.com

It's been over two years since the Welsh band People In Planes released their debut album. Their follow-up, Beyond the Horizon, is an amazing mix of spacey-melodies, rocking tunes and outstanding vocals. Usually, I can pick out my most favorite song, but this time I found myself enjoying all songs and winding up with three absolute favorites.

Lead vocalist Gareth Jones has this earthy quality to his voice that I feel is what you'd get if you mixed Bruce Springsteen with Adam Duritz of the Counting Crows. Jones' voice is unique and remarkable well suited to the blend of rock and more mellow songs that are found on Beyond the Horizon.

Songs I absolutely loved include the first release “Mayday (M'aidez)”, “Know by Now” and “Tonight the Sun Will Rise.” The tempos of these songs and catchy melodies make them seem like instant hits. I'm sure they'll get plenty of radio play in the near future.

Even with those three standout tracks, I find myself intrigued with other songs like Beyond the Horizon, packed with drum solos, and “Last Man Standing,” one of a few songs with the rather spacey quality to the music that reminds me a bit of Tangerine Dream.

People in Planes do not follow any set pattern. They seem simply to play the music that comes from their heart and soul. Some tunes rock while others are mellower, but all are worth playing time and time again. In addition to the audio CD, listeners are also treated to a bonus DVD. Think of it as a two-for-one deal with a band that will quickly become a favorite of the alternative music crowd.