SOLA SCRIPTURA

I have read the various comments on that CD, on this very site; and I was about sure it would be a strong addition to the kind of music I love : symphonic-prog, with complex constructions and epics (I just saw the track listing to see I was having a super example of epics : 29, 25 and 16.5 min for 3 out of 4 tracks !).

So, following the collection of indications, I... borrowed it from one of my friend ! (Hey : the present site is a must, when you have an idea of what you want and like !). And I will buy it, because I ordered it ! Why ? From the point-system here, you hope for a masterpiece, or an excellent addition to your prog collection. And less for a "non-essential" or collector item. I have to add that if you like Neal Morse's music, you will not be disoriented !

So, this one is more complex and powerful than some of his other production, which I only partly know. Anyway, the music is absolutely magnificient, with lots of melodies, developments, impros from the author keyboardist, a lot of spirit musically (of course, it is more spirit influenced on the lyrics side...). In some way, it is a bit strong and powerful, but I feel the whole album easy to listen to. And the links between the various parts on each track is frankly superb, always making the song emerging to a new direction which is still connected with the general ambiance of the song... Truly inspired. And you always recognize the typical keyboard sound of Neal, his touch and musicality. There are some original moments, such as the latino pass in the second track, the violin section in the "short" one, and some very nice tempo changes at various occasions, always well chosen. Simply (because other collegues here were right-on with their descriptions... from which I ordered the CD !), each one of the epics is a 5/5 top-notch composition. You get everything you want in a true prog, complex epic track (each one). And the third song, the short one, is also very nice and emotional, as Morse is known to do. There is no other room for a 5-rating.... believe me. A must, if you know and like either Spock's Beard, Transatlantic or Morse music.