When Serj Tankian, lead singer of System Of A Down, founded Serjical Strike Records in 2001 his goal was to create a label that showcased diversity. This goal was easily reached when he signed Fair To Midland. Hailing from Sulphur Springs Texas, Fair To Midland creates some of the most original rock music on the planet. Picture your favorite hard rock band. Now picture your favorite art rock band. Now picture your favorite progressive rock band. Now put them together and add talent and an operatic singer. The result is a band that only scratches the surface of what Fair To Midland has to offer.

Fair To Midland’s major label debut ‘Fables From a Mayfly: What I Tell You Three Times is True’ is a borderline masterpiece. The band uses every element of rock music that is sure to get you on radio while adding every intangible to create a distinct sound that is sure influence in the future. The bands first single “Dance Of The Manatee” is a hard rocker that introduces you to singer Darroh Sudderth’s unique vocal stylings as well as the bands ability to create sweeping melodies. This is a great song to introduce listeners to the band but, as most singles do, it only scratches the surface.

Once you dig deeper into ‘Fable From A Mayfly’ you find inventive arrangements that create a tidal wave of sound that must be ridden. “Kyla Cries Cologne” is a song that intertwines heavy rock and piano creating a musical landscape rich in textures. “The Wife, The Kids, And the White Picket Fence” brings subtle piano and soaring vocals to the forefront. “A Seafarer's Knot” is a fast paced affair that rocks harder when required.

In an industry that is dying this combination of songs, once put together as a whole, could be one of the most important albums to come out in a long time. Fair To Midland has not only given hope to rock music but has shown that talent and determination can drive a band to create music worth listening to again.