? [AKA: QUESTION MARK]

Well.... What can I say? '?' combines all typical Neal Morse elements (the high riffs, recurring themes, catchy choruses) and that is why it isn't really a surprising album, but it combines them in such a brilliant way that it just has to be considered a masterpiece.

'Temple Of The Living God': the fantastic opening track to this album. It starts with whispered words and then goes into a very mystical, sobre piano piece. Neal's voice sings over it and then the song kicks off with one of those typical Neal Morse riffs; complicated yet very catchy. You'll probably sing the chorus along after hearing it just once, it's that catchy. 'Another World': A pretty straightforward song, nothing very special yet again, very catchy.

'Outsider': The lyrics of this song are pretty awful, but not thát awful. It's not really a memorable song, but it does it's job.

'Sweet Elation': A great main theme runs through this energetic song, with some fantastic bass-playing

'In The Fire': The longest song of the entire album, and one of the best. A heavy guitar dominates this song, but about in the middle an awesome keyboard-duel kicks in. It's truly spectacular to hear and a real joy.

'Solid As The Sun': A continuation of the previous track, including the very heavy guitar, yet with a chorus that's a tiny bit better than that of 'In The Fire'.

'Glory Of The Lord': A very bombastic track that serves as the bridge between 'Solid as the Sun' and 'Outside Looking In'.

'Outside Looking In': A very mellow song with good lyrics by Neal Morse standards. It's one of the easier songs of this album and is very pleasant to listen to.

'12': The lyrics are pretty bad here, though it's a nice try. But this song really isn't about the lyrics, it's about the awesome music. At about 1:30 the main theme of the album returns, which is pretty awesome. The then following 5 minutes of music is some of the best Neal has ever written; it's catchy, complex and a few previous riffs and themes return. Portnoy drums like there's no tomorrow and the keyboard sounds great.

'Entrance': Again, a recurring theme returns. The chorus is very catchy, but not that memorable

'Inside His Presence': Beautiful! This is my favourite track of the album because of the beautiful singing by Neal. The transition to the last track is also incredibly well done

'Temple Of The Living God': A great and epic ending to a truly fantastic album. The guitar here is magnificent and really moves me. Excellent drumming by Portnoy here (as always), plus also a great 'chorus': the main theme. The very last note is also surprising; a single piano chord which gives me goosebumps everytime I hear it.

This is a splendid album and any fan of prog should own this, even if you're not into Neal's previous music. Give it a chance and you might just discover your favorite album of the century.

9.4/10

Progressive greetings from Belgium! - James Someone