Independent releases are sometimes so reminiscent of the bands who influenced them, that they sound contrived; struggling to forge an identity of their own. Ant Graham is an artist who doesn't suffer this failing. A few guest contributions aside, Graham's Noise626 project is defined as "gothic progressive rock". But before anyone recoils in horror at the idea that two of the most notoriously self-indulgent genres should merge together, the blend actually works and on a more consistent basis than his 'Art Of Falling Forward' debut. The likes of 'We Can Build You' and 'Appelez-L'un Jour (Part 3)' meander down several dark alleys taking on breakbeat as well as grimy post-punk guitars whilst Graham's own vocals sound determined yet fearful; struggling to make sense of a world gone wrong. But musically most things are right and the instrumental tracks are just as riveting. Additionally 'Light Goes To Dark' is a ballad of admirable vulnerability and 'The Breaking' is satisfyingly ambient in texture. Surprisingly it's the live version of 'Ghosts' - a song from his last album - which is perhaps the most riveting performance on offer. An invitingly dark body of work from a real individual.