Whereas the previous album Images And Words was the one that brought them to worldwide attention (mainly due to the single Pull Me Under), this – their second album – was the one that cemented their status as Prog metal kings. This album is truly a superb record where they pulled out all of the stops as they knew this was their big chance – and boy did they deliver.
Everything about this album is pure class. From the intricate arrangements, wonderful melodies, and unbelievable playing, this is the album that laid down a template for every Prog metal band that came after. 6.00 is such a killer opening and contains everything I love about this era of the band. The opening to Caught In A Web is jaw droppingly amazing and has a great D-tuned riff and groove. The musicianship is just off the charts. If this was some jazz fusion supergroup the critics would be moistening themselves. I remember reading some very average reviews about this record at the time, which just blew my mind. Side 3 opens with The Mirror and Lie is as good as it gets, absolute epic stuff, and boy do I wish Mike Portnoy was still in the band.
I could go on and on about why and how awesome this record is, but you should get the message by now – and yes – every home should have one.
10/10 from The Grooveman.
