Album Rating: 5.0
Perhaps the biggest grower of an album I've ever experienced? At first I was not a fan at all, it felt lacklustre and too long (maybe that's still the case a little). But it's wormed its way into my brain and I can't stop listening to it now. By far the most diverse thing they've ever done, outranking the debut in my opinion (which is great if a little samey across the runtime).
Weakest parts are probably towards the end (not including Forever & More though). Disc 1 may be stronger overall, though there are highlights throughout both.
Standouts are The Sick Rose for the gothic feel, Interstellar for the groove and soaring heights, White Horses At Sea for sounding very different to what they've put out before, and Trading Dark Matter for that beautiful solo and huge ending.
|