Only 2 complete spins here, since this was a really busy week.
I really like the album, i havenīt read the lyrics/story yet, but as a musical piece itīs really good. Probably my favorite DT album since TOT.
As for the sounds/production, i see an improvement since the last 2 records, especially in the drums. Itīs not perfect but itīs a lot better than it was on DT12.
The performances: As everybody said, JLB really shines here, a fantastic job. JP and JR delivered awesome performances, too. Theres great riffs, solos and melodies everywhere. MM did a fine job, keeping things going even if the music itself asks for simpler drums. JM is kinda buried in the mix, though
(or maybe itīs my earphones).
As for the favorite songs, itīs a little early for me, but i can say that i like The Gift Of Music, Lord Nayfarius, A New Begining and Our New World a lot. But i think the record works well as a whole.