Universal Migrator Part 1: The Dream Sequencer

Ayreon is the epic-prog rock project of the Dutchman Arjen Lucassen. This album, Universal Migrator Part 1: The Dream Sequencer, is part of a larger series of similarly themed albums, but is more directly related to its' counterpart Universal Migrator Part 2: Flight of the Migrator, which was released congruently back in 2000. Quite the mouthful, huh? Anyway, Arjen is the ever intrepid prog musician. He collected a series of talents to join him on his quest, including but not limited to Lana Lane, Neal Morse and Johan Edlund. One of those things does not belong... That's right, Johan Edlund from Tiamat contributes his distinct baritone for what is perhaps the highlight of the album "My House on Mars."

I should probably take a moment and explain what this album is all about...

It's 2084, and the earth has consumed itself in war. Everyone is dead. Colonists on Mars are now dying as a result (no imports of food, water, soap, etc.) There is this awesome machine, called the Dream Sequencer. It allows you to travel through time and live the experiences of famous people and events. Like a virtual reality history lesson. This one poor chap is the last person alive on Mars, or anywhere for that matter, and he hops in the machine to live out his days as best he can. Let the fun and adventure begin! Enter Sir Francis Drake, Rembrandt, Neil Armstrong, Druids, Mayans, etc etc etc...

I'm not too into the "rock opera" scene. But, this album somehow keeps making it back into my rotation after all these years. Especially Edlunds track.

Part 2 has some lad named Bruce Dickinson. But I never made it that far.

...enjoy...

The Dark Third

I don't think "progressive" really describes Pure Reason Revolution adequately. Maybe "progressively symphonic psychedelically epic melodic rock," would be more appropriate. The Dark Third, their debut from 2006, is comprised of slowly building melodies and often soaring vocal choruses. It appears, according to information provided by the band, that there are four member of PRR. This is obviously some sort of ruse. I cannot comprehend that only four human beings are responsible for the sonic output of this album. The album plays out like a 70's prog- rock epic, however it's songs are very forward looking, almost futuristic at times. Think maybe Pink Floyd meets Porcupine Tree plus a whole boat load of choruses and harmonizing. Listening to this album while driving down a pitch black highway in the dead of the night is highly recommended.

.enjoy.

From Which of This Oak

Agalloch's 1997 demo From Which of This Oak was limited to 200 cassette tapes and is a fascinating listen. It hints at what would ultimately (at least for the time being...) become Agalloch's easily recognizable sound. The neo-folk, the black metal, the progressive yet inspiring song structures, and of course the ever present sense of defiant melancholy. Agalloch are a vital and creative force within music. This demo documents their beginnings. It is distantly familiar when compared with their more recent work. Yet, it's still miles ahead of most other musicians. One thing present here, that didn't follow the band onto their formal releases, is a surprising NWOBHM influence on the opening track, "The Wilderness." It's high energy guitar attack is pretty awesome and pretty surprising. Still, I'm glad they left this influence behind. I would rather enjoy it as part of their youthful past, while rightfully appreciating their current more mature sound which they have truly made their own. Enough knit-picking ... demo or not, these 4 tracks are impressive. From this small seed has grown a band whose roots are as vast and run as deep as the considerable influence they impart on the world of music around them.

heathen