THE FULLNESS OF TIME

I review this album as a big fan of vocalist Ray Alder (Fates Warning). I have to say that it is absolutely superb. Track one 'Threads' is outstanding - an excellent opener which features phenomenal drumming and (of course) sensational vocals. It does sound like a heavier version of Fates Warning due in no small part to the guitars of Nick van Dyk and Bernie Versailles, which give a more 'metal' feel. 'Parker's Eyes' is another strong track with excellent playing and features some 9/11 emergency services footage. It is followed by 'Scarred', yet again a powerful song which would be excellent live (play it loud). Next up is 'Sapphire' at just under 16 minutes. Ray Alder has never sounded better. The whole band carry this song effortlessly and the keyboards are excellent. It is an awesome track and worthy of the status : classic. The last four tracks make up 'The Fullness of Time Suite' (i) Rage (ii) Despair (iii) Release and (iv) Transcendence. 'Rage' begins with an old man's rant about death, disease, injustice, inhumanity, torture, anger, hate, pain and cruelty etc etc. It then launches into the music and in places reminds me of Iron Maiden, which is a good thing (honest!!). 'Despair' opens in piano mode and quickly accelerates into prog metal mode similar to Symphony X. 'Release' features some excellent keyboards and is pretty catchy and memorable (as are most tracks on here). Finally we have 'Transcendence'. this opens with desolate barren wind FX and piano - you can tell we are going to get some closure. Ray Alder was unknown to me until fairly recently, and that astounds me. He really is particularly good, he conveys emotion and feeling and has a presence. This album is essential - a prog metal tour de force.