IMMORTAL?

Years ago when I first bought this CD, I thought Arena was going through a big change, and the neo prog, ie. gone is the Gabriel-era Genesis or Fish-era Marillion sound that pretty much defined the first few albums, and some harder edge guitar comes into play - thanks to genius guitarist John Mitchell.

I just listened to this album again today from start to finish, and I had to eat my words, because the neo-prog elements are pretty much in the face. Ghosts in the firewall and Climbing the net are a pretty obvious example and I think this album would leap to another level if these two tracks are left as an outtake. Chosen is not a strong opener but it works ok. Waiting for the flood is an attempt at rock ballad, which is to an acquired taste. Butterfly Man is very dark. Yes the very thick synth and guitar sounds are a good update of the neo-prog elements.

I agree with most of the reviews of this album I am sure would consider Moviedrome a masterpiece. This almost 20 minute is a good roller-coaster ride through multiple styles, sounds, rhythm. If Immortal? is a one-track EP featuring Moviedrome, it will be a five star release. Friday's Dream sounds is a very good closer. Placing this at the end and right after Moviedrome is genius.

Oh, did I mention John Mitchell? He really shines in this record, I think even better than the previous album. Clive Nolan the mastermind does his job ok, but I don't like some of the pads he chose. There are something in Rob Sowden's voice that I don't like, especially the album opening lines, but he is quite good in many of the songs like, again Moviedrome.

As of now, the average rating for this album is 3.90, which almost guarantees an excellent addition to any prog collection. OK the rating in time will change, but it is about the right place I would rank this album.