A musical journey so magical, intricate and technical can't be anything but impressive. I can't imagine anyone moderately interested in music as an art form not being impressed at all by this master-piece. Set in a magical sci-fi fantasy setting where a terrestrial being conducts an experiment where humans from different ages are strung together on a journey through things never imagined by man. An assorted crew of vocalists lend their personalities to portray the operas different characters as they deal with their experiences. A majestic homage to old b-movies and artists of the 70's such as Jethro Tull, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyid it delivers a modern journey back to times where music was made in the heat of cultural movements. It's a wonderful counter-culture aspect which stirs my soul. Having been only born in the very late 80's I have experienced the old era through my parents. But thanks Ayreon this timeless music has been packaged for a more modern audience.
The introduction with Isis and Osiris is arguable the strongest track of the entire double CD album, with ever dazzling swells of harmony between all sorts of instruments coupled with narrative. The most noteworthy additions being instruments like the indish sitar and the mandolin being intertwined with modern guitars and organs. And in the break the song is elevated into the stars with one of the worlds greatest synth-solos. At first it does feel a bit like a let down when the following tracks don't have that same bombastic structure. Even so the third track Amazing Flight easily keeps the standard high, but after that the general pace slows down a little. But to say that the quality of the arrangements diminish is simply not true, apart from perhaps Tunnel of Light which is arguably the CD's only obviously weak song.
But with magical tunes like Time Beyond Time and hard rock anthems such as Across the Rainbow Bridge you should definitely not be put down by the occasional transport song. Admittedly the second CD has less stellar arrangements but if you let it sink in, it's a wonderful journey towards the mystical and grand conclusion of the story.
Though there are great standalone songs, in my opinion this album is best experienced if you dedicate it a full sitting (like all concept albums). Which is of course a daunting thing as the epic clocks in at 1 hour and 44 minutes. I admit i didn't do it on my first listen, and I don't expect anyone keeping their interest for that long. But for those who do, they'll be rewarded with colorful and beautiful imagery rare in the record industry. And this being a commercial success ultimately must at some rate verify that there are those who agree with this sentiment. This album is the fruit of the passion and hard work of Arjen A Lucassen's fueled by his love for the theatrical and it will remain one of the most thrilling musical experiences in my life.
Atleast check out the first track Isis and Osiris, since I feel it really is a one of a kind, if not then please refer me to more music like it.
