SNOWFALL ON JUDGMENT DAY

On first listen I thought this album a little one dimensional, somewhat confused and rushed, with a less than convincing production. There doesn't seem to be the same depth, complexity or progressive thought to this album. However after many listens the album has really grown on me.

I have loved their previous work, particularly 'The Origins of Ruin' as an album, and 'Sapphire' as a single track (from 'The Fullness of Time'), and think despite their latest offering being less progressive, it sits along side their previous work pretty comfortably.

It's a much faster paced album with few moments to take breath, but I still credit redemption as a band with fantastic song writing skills.

I think 'Black and White World' and 'Love Kills Us All / Life in One Day' are the two tracks that are most recognisably progressive metal, and will be appreciated by people who have liked their previous albums.

For me the weakest tracks are the first and second to last tracks, but they too have grown on me, being fast paced and more aggressive.

Another Day Dies, perhaps, demonstrates the vocal superiority of Ray Alder over James LaBrie, who in my opinion is the weak link in Dream Theater - but I digress.

Personal favourites are 'Wall', 'Black and White World' and 'Love Kills Us All / Life in One Day'.

Not five stars as there could have been a more progressive, complex and varied entry building on the good work of before, but otherwise this is a good addition to their catalogue.