BLACK CLOUDS & SILVER LININGS

Ok, Here we go... I have anticipated this release for the last few months. I am a fan of some of DT releases, but not all. I am most critical of Labries vocals. I feel that it really is the Achilles heel of an otherwise amazing band. With that said lets roll! Disc1 of the 3 CD set opens with the rumble of a storm and continues to roll on thru the second track. Great playing and singing. Yes-singing! Maybe Labrie has finally grown out of pubescence, but whatever the reason is, it is a major improvement. Wither slows things down a bit before emerging in the Shattered Fortress. Here we revisit some harmonies, melodies, and themes of old as we (hopefully) close out the AA saga. Next comes the Best of Times. I know, most kiss a** fans would blubber on about how touching the story and the tribute to Portnoys father is, and how it just compels this song to its beautiful ending blah, blah, blah. Sorry, not me! This song is the weakest on the album lyrically and vocally. The instrumental version on disc 3 is quite remarkable, without the distraction of the aforementioned. If I was in the band, I would have left the lyrics/vocals out and gone with the instrumental version. Thats just me though. Others appear to like it and hey, good on them. The final track is a true humdinger . The Count of Tuscany? Yes, please! Much more of this on the next album! I found the lyrics and story fascinating. I would love to know more of the story here. Perhaps a Part 2 as the next concept album? Oh, I think so!

Anyways, back to the rest of the Package: Disc 2- the Cover songs- Overall enjoyable to hear the boys play some of the songs that inspired them. I enjoyed the Rainbow and King Crimson covers the most. Again, personal taste. All are good, but none of them are essential.

Moving on, almost done- Disc 3-Instrumental- For me, the best of the lot! I love to hear the musicianship aglow, unfettered by vocals. Especially a group this talented. I can hear all of the nuances, all the notes, everything! Phenomenal!!

Final grade-3.8ish really, not quite 4, but hell, I really love that instrumental disc, so lets say 4 for sure! I would get the 3 disc over the single, for certain. Worth the extra money for that..well, you know! It is well produced and the packaging is pretty cool. I am not a fan of the mini-LP slipcases for the CDs, but other than that I enjoy the digi-case much more than a plastic jewelcase. The lyrics are presented in a nice foldout as well. Enjoy!