Thanks for all the feedback, it's fun to hear how everyone else responds to these threads.
34. Circus Maximus - Nine [2012]Track Picks: Architect of Fortune, Namaste, Reach Within, I Am, Burn After Reading, Last Goodbye
One of the many Dream Theater clone bands making a name for themselves is the plucky Circus Maximus. I shouldn't sell them short by calling them simply a "clone" or wannabe band, because they are brilliant musicians at the top of their craft. "Nine" is the third album by the Norwegian quintet. When I first heard it I wasn't quite sure what to think of it since it is a shift from earlier heavier works into a more commercially accessible approach filled with numerous 4-5 minute songs. It wasn't the album
I wanted from them. Once I got over the silly pretense of me thinking what was best for them to do and accepted it for what it is, I loved it. Despite it's more mainstream feel, there are still plenty of progressive elements to keep long time fans happy. After a brief ambient prelude track, it opens with the main event in one of the few longer tracks in the excellent "Architect of Fortune" which begins with a thematic guitar solo taking cues from the eventual chorus melody. "I Am" is a memorable and straightforward rocker featuring some of the best guitar work on the album with a fantastic solo to boot. "Burn After Reading" has an incredible grandiose atmosphere that builds to become the highlight of the album.
Why it should be ranked lower: Some folks may not like the commercial prog approach
Why it should be ranked higher: Very catchy and melodic album that shows true progression in their careers
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33, 32. Big Big Train - English Electric Part 1 [2012], English Electric Part 2 [2013]Track Picks Part 1: The First Rebreather, Winchester From St. Giles Hill, Judas Unrepentant, A Boy In Darkness, Hedgerow
Track Picks Part 2: East Coast Racer, Worked Out, Keeper of Abbeys, The Permanent Way
*For ranking purposes I considered these one album, but they take up two slots on the list*One word: Gorgeous. I could probably end the review right there, but I think I should talk about this amazing gem a little bit more. Big Big Train have been around for a while but it was late in their careers that they managed to put everything together and create some magic. Their sound could be described as a modern Genesis, hell, even lead singer David Longden is a dead ringer for Peter Gabriel. This is a pair of album's that just exude quality craftmenship. From the moment "The First Rebreather" plays on your speakers you are delighted to a gorgeous melodically driven piece that will sweep you up in all its glory. It is pretty much a futile effort to pick a favorite track here because I could just as easily say my favorite is whatever is playing at the time. "Judas Unrepentant" has a groovy organ opening that distingushes it from the rest of the album. If I were to pick a favorite of Part 1 then "A Boy in Darkness" would be a contender with it's dark and melancholy opening that eventually transitions into a fun and energetic jazz instrumental bridge. Part 2 kicks things off with an epic 15 minute opener with "East Coast Racer" that lives up to the consistent quality set in part 1. "Keeper of Abbeys" is a very accessible and fun tune that anyone would enjoy. Overall, this a must listen album. It has yet to leave my regular rotation since release and I see it staying there for a long time.
Why it should be ranked lower: Still pretty new to be here right, lots of 2012 albums for some reason.
Why it should be ranked higher: It's an instant classic. This will be moving up the rankings quickly.