OCTANE

This album is pathetic. Even worse than the previous album (also with the absence of Neal Morse) Feel Euphoria which had at least a few good, progressive tracks. But this one is pure pop and rock stuff + a couple of tasteless trying-to-be-prog-ideas. Well, alright: NWC is a typical average prog-instrumental and Planet's Hum has a few good moments (almost reminding me of the Neal Morse era), but as a one piece Octane is one of the worst "prog" albums in a long time. I think SB fans should face the reality: the band was based on Mr. Morse and his creativity, so why do you think these side guys alone could maintain the status of the classic Spock's Beard? Each one of them is surely a talented musician, but their capability to create new, timeless prog rock is very limited. These guys would never have made success on their own.

My belief of Spock's Beard's coming back collapsed finally when I heard this album. So if you're not searching some poor radio-rock, do not buy this one.Right now I could almost recommend Feel Euphoria.