Definitely a strong album so far. The Bigger Picture, Behind the Veil, Surrender to Reason and Illumination Theory are my definite favorite tracks. I also love False Awakening but I'll consider it an 'opener'.
Can't say 'Instant Classic'. I've only listened to it a few times!
I have listened in the car (an ok sound system) and through my Sennheiser HD518's. MY goodness, the mix is really, really good through the headphones! My favorite thing? The tight rythym section between JM and MM. Some superlative playing. And I love how JM is super high in the mix. I also love the moments of space on the album, when everything strips away to just piano or effects. I know they're a few and far between but it really is amazing.
I certainly did not expect this at all. It was great to be surprised and the album is very, very strong imo. While I hate comparisons, I'll do one anyway
Better then SC and BCSL easily. While I love Octavarium (for the title track), this is stronger all round. It just edges past ADTOE at this stage. Better then ToT.
But not quite better then 6DOIT, SFAM or I&W.
I guess I'd probably rate it around what I think of Awake. Just behind the Holy Trinity of albums.
Great album. Fantastic even.