Donald Rumsfeld forms a controversial federal agency of misinformation and Jim Matheos (Fates Warning) steals its name, Office of Strategic Influence for his new super group. Recruited for this album were Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), Kevin Moore (Chroma Key), and Sean Malone (Cynic). The foundation is progressive metal however subdued with atmospheric ambience and droning guitars layered with cryptic vocal passages, inducing an almost hypnotic headphone experience. Extra credit for recruiting Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) as lead vocalist for the wonderful extended Shutdown track. Too often projects involving musicians from critically acclaimed, established bands fall flat and rather disappointingly mediocre. OSI quickly establishes its own identity and niche in the progressive rock universe.
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