AGE OF IMPACT

As with his main band MAGELLAN Trent Gardner did all compositions on this ambitious super group project here on his own. Nevertheless sometimes one gets the impression he adapted them a bit to DREAM THEATER style to account for the involved musicians. First track "Fate Speaks" is quite a strong one but what's a bit disappointing that the basic structure of it, means long sections by Gardner alternating with solos by guitar or keyboard will be more or less repeated throughout the whole album. Although it's really an impressive demonstration of technical skill by Petrucci, Sherinian and Sheehan, not forgetting excellent drummer Bozzio the final result is not something one loves to listen over and over again because the good songwriting is missing and there is an obvious lack of creativity. In second track tempo is a bit reduced and it has an awesome guitar solo in its middle part. Thereafter they pick up again the theme of track 1 in the next one. Track 4 sounds a bit more like typical Magellan introducing a flute tune. Last track is driving and tough in a similar way as the first one.

I've to admit I loved this album in the beginning more than I do now, but that was still during a time I appreciated music mainly based on virtuoso technical skill as done by DREAM THEATER and MAGELLAN. Meanwhile I started to agree to some people criticising such type of musicians just showing how fast they can play. That's why I would not rate this album higher than with 3 1/2 stars!

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