Neal Morse is one of my favourite recording artists, and it is always with eager anticipation that I put on a new record of his, or one of the projects he has been an important part of. He has really helped me broaden my horizon, first with the brilliant Spock's Beard and later on as a solo artist.
Just like it was the case with 'Snow' in Spock's Beard, he has a very though act to follow; 'Sola Scriptura' was in many ways the musical pinnacle for him, and even though 'Lifeline' is another fine Neal Morse album it never quite reaches the same heights and depths as it's predecessor did. Neal did off course leave Spock's Beard after 'Snow' and the band has never been the same again, and they have never managed to top that album.
Thankfully he has simply moved on, and has put on another fine show, with all of the proven trademarks present; outstanding musicianship, brilliant melody lines and his unique flair for musical drama and adventure. Within the confines of his precisely carved niche he manages to push the borders just a little bit, and give us the listeners a great and eventful ride on the soundwaves of joy.
Brillant
