01011001

The Dutch Metal Maestro is not known to deliver half-baked material, and this album is certainly NOT a disappointment but it's really not hard to go through these 2 records (read heavy but light hearted music). Lucassen is again well supported: the usual Epica/ Within Temptation female vocals, the macho Iron Maiden vocals for guys, lots of super keyboard textures and layers of shredding guitars.

Hey, is it me or this is reminds me of Star One?

In fact, not only Star One, but also The Human Equation and a couple others...

Okay, this is no spoiler: this album is the same recipe of the past records that put Ayreon and co. on the map. But to me, this is a bit too close to his past works from the artwork to the plot and the music. But, frankly I didn't mind too much 'cauze you know what? It rocks hard...really hard.

The songs are fantastic, the singing is top notch and the hooks are plenty; nothing to complain! If you liked the 'sound pattern' of Star One, you cannot go wrong with this one. There's not as much folk-metal in 01011001 as I wanted to be; too bad 'cause Ayreon really excels in that matter. In the end, expect more electronica rythms than the past, and it fits good in this sci-fi tale.

On the head side, this record has everything that made Ayreon's world what it is, so no change of pace nor direction this year. Awesome melodies and production; a distinctive sound that will shake the dust of your PA without a Swiffer.

On the tale side: no surprises really (since it's an old recipe), the whole plot starts to collect dust and the electonica textures are kinda worn for 2008.

Oh Ayreon, we love your little bubble but try to be less predictable.

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