Exceeds even Doomsday Afternoon to these ears
R. Martino | 07/05/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"There's no orchestra this time but perhaps even more sonic color and an extra sense of urgency in the performances. While not intended to be the third part of the Great Leap/Doomsday trilogy, it's got a similar unfolding, epic scale.
Those trademark Phideaux elements are there - the subtle craftsmanship that grows on you with repeat listens, the memorable melodies, the folky/psychedelic/gothic/symphonic musical flavors, the strong emotional elements, and to my ears an even greater tightness and intensity this time around.
The complexity in this music isn't the kind that beats you over the head-- no fast metal riffs or pyrotechnic instrumental displays (which often wear thin when the novelty wears off)-- just deep, stunningly crafted art rock that will reward the listener for years to come.
Still my favorite musical artist of the decade!"
A worthy follow-up to Doomsday Afternoon
Ben Littauer | Bedford, MA USA | 07/17/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
""Only" four stars for this one, since I'm stingy. It's really very good, but falls just a shade short of Doomsday Afternoon and some of the top progressive out there. A very nice work, however, and certainly worth the price of admission. Distinguishing it in my mind from some of Phideaux's earlier work is the occasional saxophone, which give this a wonderful Tull Passion Play vibe (I'm a passionate Passion Play fan). The vocals are also very well put together (headphones recommended). As usual very nice use of "period" instruments (hammond, piano, clavinette, analog synths)."
This is amazing!
Metal Queen | Portland, Oregon | 09/06/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This (bar none) is as (good or better?)as Pink Floyd in their day. The complexity, the passion, the feeling carrying you away to a wonderful, peaceful place. Emotions galore. I have no more words for this work. It is brilliant."
Track Listings (16) - Disc #1