I A M

Tomas has pulled out all the stops for his forth solo album. I wasn't sure if I liked it at first, and a 63 minute suite is a lot to take in all at once (it is split into 3 tracks, and each is subdivided into various parts, but it is still a cohesive single piece). The thing I had the most trouble with was the vocals. In the first track, they are quite frankly, grating at times. Fortunately, this is only a few spots here and there in the first track, and in the successive tracks they improve immensely. In fact, it is hard to believe it is the same singer in later parts, it is so much better. That is really my only gripe with the album, and it is a minor one. Also, I came to realize (based on things Tomas has said on the Flower Kings Yahoo group) that he wanted the vocals to be gritty and angst ridden and, yes, even a bit off key for certain parts. Basically to emphasize the tortured nature of some of the lyrics.

There are some excellent prog workouts, including a couple of the best solo's I have ever heard Bodin play. The bass and drums are very solid, and if you don't listen closely you may not realize just how well played they are. The new Flower Kings drummer Marcus is quite good, and reminds me very much of Jamie Salazar, the original Flower Kings drummer. JJ Marsh also has some very nice moments on lead guitar, and manages to inject some truly bluesy moments as well as gritty 70's hard rock riffs.

It is hard to do this album justice with a review. It was meant to be listened to, not discussed. Suffice to say, it is by far Tomas' best solo outing, and I enjoy it much more than I did the Flower Kings release that came right before it (Adam & Eve). It takes a few listens to come realize just how good this album is, but isn't that true of the best progressive rock and music in general?

In any case, if you like his other albums and other bands, then you will enjoy this. If you like extremely diverse, excellently played, extremely dynamic prog rock music then this is a must have.

This album has had a profound affect on me the more I've listened to it over the years since it's release. I really think this is a prog rock masterpiece.