|
"Unreal" has all the makings of a good concept album, yet I am still on the fence as to weather or not it is one or if it is rather a theme album. The difference between a concept album and a theme album is always a point of speculation. However, rather than having multiple tracks telling one story, the songs on "Unreal" seem more like a collection of well-written short stories that have similar themes. I have noticed that each song has its own point of perspective. I feel as if each song puts me in the shoes of a living thing in an "unreal" circumstance such as the moment one loses control of a car before a fatal crash, contact with an alien, the thought processes of a duelist in a killer, and probably the most disturbing, the psychological affects of losing a twin in traumatic circumstances. If the name Spheric Universe Experience wasn't interesting enough at first, I find myself asking weather or not the band meant to tie the name into the album's themes or if I am making this connection. I'm sure there are many more connections to be made and each listener will make connections of their own. A theme album in the purest sense with storytelling that rivals some of the best concept albums.
Complexity aside, this is a very heavy album guaranteed to please fans of true metal. Spheric Universe Experience is successful with such complex music because they arrange all the elements in such a way that you can't help but stay interested. The addition of diverse instruments and steles to the mix adds to the interesting qualities of the album.
"White Willow" is without a doubt my favorite song on the album because it leaves me with the impression that it was probably the culmination of the writing process for this album. It is probably a good thing they chose to put their best song first. The rest of the album is very good, however, it took a few listens before I really got into it. I probably got into the rest of the album just because I wanted to listen to "White Willow," whereas, I wonder if I'd have given the rest of the album as much attention had it not been the first track.
Spheric Universe Experience offers a sound that is truly unique. Definately a must-have for 2009! I can't decide if we are spoiled having the best song first or weather that was necessary in order to keep listener interest. "Unreal" is a must-have for fans of progressive metal and theme albums alike.
Rating: 85
Reviewed By: Brian Grefrath