It's interesting to reflect that when The Apex Theory first appeared on the underground map with their "Extendemo" release they seemed brazen and bold for manipulating alternative rock into such adventurous, inherently original sounds; and yet here they are, once more a part of the independent circuit bearing a new EP and it barely causes a ripple. The scene has definitely moved on in the time since they released their full-length debut ("Topsy-Turvy"), they lost their label (Dreamworks Records) and their singer (Andy Khachaturian), but one would like to believe that their breed of talent and songwriting ability deserves some merit. "Inthatskyissomethingwatching" unfortunately makes it hard to discern exactly what to root for, as the band strive to recreate what once was rather than develop something brand new.

However cynical the outlook, the sad truth is that The Apex Theory's ambitions continue to be stifled in the constraints of their West Coast rock approach; not complicated enough to captivate the music majors and yet never catchy enough to appeal to a purely mainstream crowd. While this is an enjoyable outing it never demands one's full attention, and if the you aren't listening intently you're apt to miss the band's deviation from the script entirely. Though this EP is the first to feature guitarist Artin Karamian as the primary vocalist one would be hard pressed to notice the difference, as he does his very best Andy Khachaturian impression. Rather than imbue the group with a fresh diversion in styles, Karamian becomes nothing more than an echo, a weaker and less distinctive version of the bands original voice, and this impersonation certainly does not help open The Apex Theory up for new listeners.

Given that this is the group's first outing as a three-piece one can't expect instantaneous brilliance. Yet in spite of some encouraging moments (Sammy Watson continues to prove his skill behind the drum-kit and David Hakopyan's chortling bass is the group's signature sound when the production allows it), "Inthatskyissomethingwatching" sounds like little more than scraps of "Topsy-Turvy" stripped of their uniqueness. To alleviate their musical monotony The Apex Theory must elevate their game, as they have already offered this sound to the masses during their tenure on Dreamworks Records and found it largely passed by. Much like any indie act the band will always retain a cult following, and fans of dredg, CKY and Incubus should be able to find something to like here. But while it's one thing to form a niche and stick to it, this album seems needlessly attached to a band that The Apex Theory no longer really are. Sure, there may be something in the sky watching, but the real question is if they refuse to grow and adapt, will anyone still be listening?