DISCONNECTED

During the work with producer Terry Brown, Fates Warning made their best record. They finally found what they wanted to share, and their musical vision became more accessible to a regular listener, as their previous records were hard to understand. Now, the music and concept come together. Unfortunately, the record was somewhat underrated.

Disconnected blends their progressive metal roots with a heavier use of electronic elements. This album is often seen as a departure from their earlier, more guitar-driven work, weaving a darker and more atmospheric soundscape.

"Disconnected (Part 1)" introduces an unsettling ambiance that runs through the entire record. The eerie electronics and minimalist structure set the tone for an album that feels more introspective. The opener transitions smoothly into "One," which showcases Ray Alder's vocals with a mix of emotional delivery and tension, underscored by Jim Matheos' outstanding guitar work.

The album's centerpiece, "Still Remains," is a nearly 16-minute epic that encapsulates the album's strengths?rich layering of guitars, electronic touches, and Mark Zonder's tight, precise drumming. The song evolves slowly, building atmosphere before moving into heavier, riff-driven sections. This contrast between tension and release drives Disconnected.

I was never a fan of Kevin Moore's keyboard style, but on this record, the atmospheres he creates with Jim Matheos are truly amazing and immersive.

Disconnected explores themes of isolation, technology, and emotional distance, matching the cold, almost sterile sound of the electronics. Alder's delivery is often melancholy, reflecting the album's introspective mood. Songs like "Pieces of Me" and "So" balance human emotion with a sense of detachment, fitting the album's title perfectly.

There is a clear influence from Tool in some of the atmospheric and rhythmic choices. Tracks like "Still Remains" build tension slowly, using hypnotic, repetitive rhythms and intricate layering. However, while Fates Warning incorporates some of these atmospheric elements, they retain their distinct progressive identity. The album's electronic touches and reflective tone set it apart from the raw intensity often associated with Tool, giving Disconnected a more detached, futuristic feel.

I believe the main influence here is the great work with Terry Brown. Something similar happened with Voivod?both bands worked with him on previous records, and after that, they made masterpieces. Disconnected stands out. It's a record that grows with each listen, its atmosphere deepening the more time you spend with it.

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