BLOOD

OSI is a partnership of guitarist Jim Matheos (Fates Warning) and keyboardist/vocalist Kevin Moore (Chroma Key, ex-Dream Theater). OSI's self-titled album (2003), was an instant prog classic. It featured Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) on drums, and Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) as a guest vocalist on one of the songs.

Their second album, Free, made my top 10 for 2008.

With Blood, they made the top 10 again.

This time around, Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree) takes care of the drums. Portnoy and Harrison are arguably the #1 and #2 best prog drummers in rock today.

Moore's keyboards create ambient soundscapes while Matheos' guitars provide the driving metal textures. OSI's unique progressive blending of electronics with hard rock makes them distinctive, and one of my favorite bands. Kevin Moore's almost-monotone vocal delivery is an acquired taste, but I really like it, and it fits perfectly in with this style of music.

Stand out tracks include "The Escape Artist," "Radiologue," "Be the Hero," and the title track.