Number Seven - Premium Quality Product for Everyday Use | Perfect for Home, Office & Gifting

This CD is an amazing example of what a really outstanding (you'll pardon the expression) 'progressive rock' album can and should be.The backdrop is an epic science fiction tale that drips with social allegory. I wonder if P. Xavier chose this direction after his work with Arjen Lucasson of Ayreon? The story is thoughfully outlined for us in simple terms right in the front of the beautifully produced booklet. Remember when exploring the artwork and lyrics was an intergral part of the the whole album buying experience? Phideaux has once again captured that spirit and makes the performance a visual journey as well.But the music is the primary reason I bought the CD, and this music is great! It continues in the style we've all come to know and love from Phideaux, et al. The music is heavily keyboard and guitar driven with infectious melodies, some lovely reflective passages and some downright dirty rock-n-roll bombast when called for. They have created a unified, wonderfully produced rock opera that flows seamlessly from one song to the next. There are plenty of moments that pay tribute to their influences throughout: I am reminded of the best of Jethro Tull (A Passion Play jumps to mind,) Yes, Alan Parsons and Genesis. There are some striking similarities with Glass Hammer at times, though I think Phideaux has eclipsed even their best efforts with this CD.Honestly, this album is a must-own for all prog-rock fans and deserving of serious consideration by anybody that loves the "concept album." Phideaux is a band to watch, and I'm guessing it's only a matter of time until the rock fans make them a household name. If I could give the album 10 stars, I would.