Episode One: A Human Into Dream’s World A
lot of musicians seem to feel the need to make a project or a rock opera
nowadays. So Daniele Liverani also doesn’t want to be an exception. He did
almost all the instruments himself but invited a whole cast of guests
vocalists. Storyconcept
introduction by the author: Genius
is a rock opera trilogy that will include a total of 33 songs (11 for each
episode). The
12 minutes opening track is a powerful progmetal piece, sung by Mark Boals.
This track is the best of the whole album. The last few minutes contain a
wonderful fight between a church organ and the guitar. The CD is full of
pieces of speedmetal, progressive metal and neo classic rock filled up with
symphonic elements. Other highlights are “The Right Place” with Lana
Lane, “All Of Your Acts” with Joe Vana, “My Pride” with John Wetton
and Steve Walsh and “Father” with John Wetton. Also “Terminate” with
the rough voice of Midnight deserves to be mentioned. Philip Bynoe is the perfect narrator with his deep, warm voice that doesn’t get boring. Bringing
together different voices isn’t that easy. If you listen to the albums of
Ayreon, you’ll discover that he can get the best out of every voice.
Sometimes they seem to do a better job than on their own CD’s. Arjen knows
very well what a certain singer can accomplish and which notes they can or
cannot reach. From time to time this seems to be the problem on “Genius, A
Rock Opera”. I have the feeling that some singers are having trouble to
reach the expected notes. For example, I have heard better from Lana Lane
and Daniel Gildenlow. Others like John Wetton, Oliver Hartmann and Joe Vana
are giving a strong performance. The
compositions are very good, very progmetal, very symphonic from time to
time. The technical skill of the musicians is also beyond any doubt. The
countdown for Part II has started. Reviewed by Danny 'Camil' Focke |
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