THE WHIRLWIND

I decided, after hearing the new Transatlantic album The Whirlwind, to register as a member of this site and post a review. This is something I have considered doing for some time now. Other albums have almost prompted me but I know that I am prone to go on and on so up until now I thought I'd best leave it to the experts!

A little bit of background - I have been a big fan of progressive rock (particularly symphonic) for about 25 years. I have always loved Genesis and Yes - and Marillion for a lot of that time. In more recent years I became a fan of Spock's Beard, The Flower Kings, Dream Theater... (spot the connections lol) .. etc. I heard Transatlantic for the first time about 5 years ago. They immediately became one of my favourite bands. I loved both of the first albums and I dare say that Bridge Across Forever even beats Close to the Edge as my favourite prog album ever. Until now.

However I say this it will sound over the top so I'm going to put this very simply... With The Whirlwind, Transatlantic have created what is, in my opinion, probably the best music I have ever heard. Simple.

I have listened to the album 20 times now - over a very short period of time I admit. I really don't think, knowing how much I love the first two albums, that this is going ot change. If it does, I will be sure to update my review.

One thing that strikes me about reviews of Neal's later music is that it almost inevitably gets good reviews from religious people. That is, of course, absolutely fine. I just want to say that I am not religious but love it as if I was (if that makes sense?!) I love the emotion in Neal's music and love equally what Roine and Mike add to it in particular.

I am only going to comment on Disc 1 as the rest is bonus material anyway.

What I love overall about the Whirlwind is that, in 20 listens, there has not been 1 minute that I've wanted to skip. I am also amazed that no one else has said this!

With some epics/concept albums, once the overture and opening have been you usually get a bit of a lull. Not here. The Wind Blew Them All Away is one of the strongest sections of the piece. I love the two parts Out Of The Night and Rose Colored Glasses. The instrumental section and ending of the latter is as fitting a close to a piece as any I've heard. I can't help smiling when it's over when I think, ok 40 minutes down - just over half- way through!

Unlike some other reviewers I love Dancing With Eternal Glory. It makes the piece for me. And bear in mind, I am not religious. The way it segues into A Man Can Feel and Whirlwind is just breathtaking.

I could go on even more but I think you've probably heard enough from me.

I simply cannot recommend this album enough. I know that there will be many who say that it is musically nothing new and that Neal's style is not for them. If you are a fan of his then this is singlehandedly the best thing he's ever done.

It will be a long time before it is as easy for me to give 5 stars to a new album again.