I know it's pretty typical and cliche to say that a band's latest work is their best, but this is pretty high up there for me. There's a lot of great songs and moments across this whole album, which is chock full of some new and exciting sounds from everyone involved. I hear a lot of influences and familiar melodies, as well as a lot of familiar words and phrases that the band have become associated with, but I think that was just the focus of this album - narrowing in on the concept and driving it home (so to speak). It's still only been a few days, so there's a lot more to digest, musically and lyrically, but after a few spins, I have to say I am pretty taken by this new album, as much as I was with EEFP and the Folklore/Grimspound/TSBS trilogy. It's nice to have this concise, single-disc concept that flows so well, and has some sprawling epics that really soar!
I'm not sure if I have a stand-out favorite yet, but the run of "Ariel", "Voyager" and "Homesong" is breathtaking, to say the least. I may have to say up my money for next year when they tour the US and make it to the nearest show, as I'm sure it'll be a once-in-a-lifetime kind of show!
-Marc.