LIQUID TENSION EXPERIMENT

A display of technical virtuosity, and a circus of sorts. Since the talent is obvious, I'll stick to what makes this album not excellent. The circus like atmosphere is not very appealing to me. For one, Spastic Ink is much better at the concept of having all musicians go haywire, so they don't even "win" in that regard.

This album is fun for a few spins, and after that, its tiresome. It doesn't hold itself. It's not something I can put on repeat over and over again and get any satisfaction out of. It's mainly a flurry of notes, and while those notes are usually placed well, it has no retaining value to it. It has some very fun and rocking moments, but lacks power, or what I consider musical power.

Some of the improvisation is great, while other parts are very dull and contain some really bad riffs. Most of the album will be hit or miss for you, and certainly the circus like effects will bring a laugh or two, however the tehnical prowess is top notch, and I give them credit for their improv abilities, as it's certainly better than mine. A good album for a few spins every now and then, but nothing you would want to keep on a deserted island as it would likely drive you insane.

2 and a half stars, up to 3 for the "x" factors in it.