So, they are back. Hybrid, and it would seem that two have now become three, with Mike Truman and Chris Healings now joined by Charlotte James. An album which had taken some two years to complete, there was talk that it would signal a new rock-infused direction by the band.

Rock, did you say? Absolutely, and it is obvious immediately, with the opening track Empire displaying a distinct rock sound to it; lots of drums, bass, even snare. The pace is quick, and perhaps not that surprisingly from Hybrid, you feel like it is a soundtrack to a movie, you are the big star, unlucky enough to be currently chased down a dark alley, frenetically looking over your shoulder, worried about what is to come next, before it all suddenly slows.

You sway, and we drop into Can You Hear Me, and if it was possible, the beats get even darker. Harder. Dirtier even. And out of nowhere…something you probably were not expecting…vocals! Indeed, in response to the track title, yes, we can hear you now. Think a touch of Prodigy infused with that a smattering of Faithless and you are a step closer to what we have here. But slowly, and surely, there is just a touch of prog-breaking goodness to keep you titillated.

But then, just as quickly, it is snatched away, and we’re returned to the soft, soothing, almost sensual embrace of Green Shell Suit presenting itself as a calm before the storm. That said, if this were a movie, the suspense would be killing you, as you really don’t know when and if that storm is going to arrive. We drift in and out, and it represents one of the possible criticisms of the album; namely, that it lacks a consistent direction, particularly so in the middle section of the album, when you would otherwise expect some absolutely classic tunes. Nevertheless, with each listen, you can feel the tunes growing on you that little bit more.

They launch Original Sin at us – and in the process kick off a triumvirate of serious tune action. Given the title, it hits the spot. Take A Fall hits us harder again, and together with Break My Soul and its deep dark side loaded with frenetic drops and a sound that makes you want to be in a car chase. Or maybe that is just me, but regardless it is the high point of the album.

It is wrapped up with Numb, which can be described as nothing but a ballad. This track ends what is arguably an offering that explores a few different places, although perhaps leaves you wanting all the same. There is no Finished Symphony that immediately jumps out and grabs you on this album. That said, the album has distinct growing appeal, and with each listen, I found myself enjoying it more and more. Methinks Hybrid fans will too.

Disappear Here is out now on Distinctive Records through Inertia.