BANKS OF EDEN

I started listening to the Flower Kings about 12 years ago and stopped shortly after Adam and Eve. TFK are one of those bands that do everything 'right' , play beautifully and their albums are undoubtedly complex. Lots of melody as well. However I would just ask the question ,have they evolved into anything over the years , has anything actually changed or is it just the usual prog by numbers retro approach?. I find little joy or pleasure in this music even though I love classic symphonic prog.It lacks for me any real emotion or 'drive'. Whereas his mate Neal Morse is on a mission I don't know what Roine's motivation for doing this. I can't get a handle on it.For me its one long unremarkable track followed by a few shorter unremarkable tracks. No attempt to do anything remotely interesting or break the mould. The bonus tracks show them being a bit more straightforward and are quite good but they aren't the reason for this album existing.Still my opinion will count for little which is fine. Make your own mind up is always the best way. I have made my mind up and I can't really see myself revisiting it. If my opinion changes I promise to let you know!

EDIT 14-9-13

OK so I have changed my mind on this! I really like the shorter tracks (although Numbers is still a bit of a pain and stops me giving 5 stars) but the rest of the album is perfect modern symph prog. Lots to enjoy really. Always happy to admit when I'm wrong.