I don't know, I think Theory of Everything is very different in terms of pacing, structure, and vocal melodies. Obviously it has many trademark Lucassen sounds and melodies, like nearly all of his albums beyond the first couple. I never understood the "this is the same old stuff" criticism on TTOE album, as to me there is barely anything that hits that sweetspot between a musical and rock/prog/metal album and the smaller cast of vocalists with very distinct voiced worked really well for that one.
This album does have a lot in common with 01011001, I agree. But the tone of many songs is quite different to make it sound distinct enough from that one (as well as the balance in types of vocals). A lot of the songs have this bright, upbeat quality to it (Everybody Dies, Run Apocalypse Run, and Planet Y is Alive in particular) and there are enough fresh elements in it that mix up the music. I like what Mike Mills brings in particular.
The ending is fine, it is a nice atmospheric leadup to I assume Age of Shadows from 01011001. I also really like Journey of Forever. The final actual song (technically the second part following Journey of Forever), however, could use a bit more oomph in it's latter part, it is not as a epic as it could've been and kind of feels like a tamer version of Day 20: Confrontation to me. Floor's bit is a nice finisher but I feel the vocals and music prior to it could be way more epic. And I think the place of The Source Will Flow breaks up the momentum of Chronicle 4: The Rebirth a bit too much. Musically I like every song in that part, but it feels a bit tame compared to what came before it and doesn't feel like a climax.
Topic: Ayreon/Arjen Lucassen Thread (Star Three on the way) (Read 382127 times)
