NO EXIT

In my opinion this is among the best progressive metal albums ever recorded. It has a very rare combination of energy, hunger, originality, and masterful songwriting and arrangement. It roars like a powerful metal album yet is layered with unpredictable drumming and complex textures you just don't hear anywhere. I prefer Ray Alder's voice to John Arch's - although I'm sure those were great albums - Ray's voice is a sonic powerhouse that rivals any opera-class vocalist, and is a formidable force in itself, probably the most talented musician in the band. The album is a bit raw but for me that just adds to its effect. I am a huge fan of Fates Warning, and I would say this belongs up there with any of their best. This, Perfect Symmetry, and A Pleasant Shade of Grey should all be at the top of the list. I find every song to be very good or excellent, and the album overall to be rock soild start to finish. No Exit, Anarchy Divine, Silent Cries, In a Word, Shades of Heavenly Death - all are excellent tracks, and The Ivory Gate of Dreams is an unheard of underrated masterpiece. As far as a reviewer commenting that progressive metal should be left to Queensryche, I totally disagree. These are two different bands who I have seen on tour together along with Dream Theater. All are outstanding performers, and all are favorites of mine. I own every album from each group. Queensryche remains untouchable and rightly so, but in my opinion, so does Fates Warning, and also Dream Theater. This album rocks as hard as anything you've ever heard and has haunting melodies to boot, combined with an aggressive complexity that does not wear over time (I've had this one 15 years.) Queensryche is great but there is nothing this heavy in their catalog. This one is unstoppable.