From rather primitive hardcore roots (as heard on the first two releases), Prong developed into quite a unique metal band by the time of
Beg To Differ, drawing from a variety of influences to create a sort of metal/industrial/groove mixture that was quite effective. The majority opinion might be that
Beg To Differ is the band's best work, though the BNR opinion sides with
Cleansing. The band unofficially dissolved in 1997, with Paul Raven and Ted Parsons both spending some time in
Godflesh before that band's breakup. For the next several years scattered reports of new Prong lineups surfaced, featuring Tommy Victor and various other people. A stable lineup finally materialized in late 2001, and a new version of Prong led by Victor, is alive once again. A live album,
100% Live was released in late 2002, followed by the band's comeback studio album (their first in seven years) in
Scorpio Rising (US release due late February 2004). Despite the member changes and the gap between releases,
Scorpio more or less picks up where their last couple of albums left off, except for toning down the industrial touches of
Rude Awakening. Victor's vocal and songwriting styles are very much intact here, making
Scorpio Rising an essential purchase for old Prong fans.
