THE HUMAN EQUATION

Ayreon's Human Equation is one of the most overtly progressive albums I've ever heard. Very seldom do I quite understand what the phrase "prog for prog's sake means" but here I believe it fits perfectly. The whole ordeal is so bombastic and insincere that I really can't stretch any enjoyment out of it. The only part of the affair I hear any sincerity in comes from the amazing cast of vocalists lined-up to do this project. Even vocalist who are usually mediocre (LaBrie, Devon Graves) contribute top-rate performances

The album has three types of songs on it: - Songs with some cool licks - Bad, boring songs - Ok songs much too flashy and cheesy for my taste

I think the attempt to develop the rather poor concept really led to the album's downfall. As a collection of 50 mins worth of tracks, severed from the concept, I think this could be a rather good 3 1/2 star album when in the correct mood. However, it's not. For the first few listens I really enjoyed this album, but from then it's been a steady downhill ride. I keep giving this album another chance due to the high praise it receives from many of my colleges, but as of now I fail to see the genius they have found.