My musical roots are grounded within the dirt of progressive rock and metal. Some of the first bands I worshipped were Dream Theater, side projects that included members of the aforementioned, and bands that called their home Magna Carta Records. I’ve since moved on from my former affinities, thank God, but I do enjoy prog every so often. Ultimately, though, I find most of it to be stale. Oftentimes, progressive bands will mimic one another’s song structures, frenetic instrumentation, and epic-in-scope song lengths. Richard Andersson’s Space Odyssey, on “The Astral Episode,” does a little of everything I mentioned.

When “Through Dreams and Reality” hit my ears, the first comparable band I thought of was Symphony X. All the elements are there: grandiose musicianship, the same keyboard sound, and rough guitar. Undoubtedly, there is some aggression buried within the confines of “The Astral Episode.” And, much like any excursion from Ayreon, there are myriad vocal styles in place. “Astral Episode” is a dead-ringer for Symphony X and – by this point – there’s no denying that the synthesizers are going to play a large role in Space Odyssey’s latest. “Lord of the Winds” contains the requisite, progressive guitar solo that skyrockets until it fizzles out in favor of vocalizations. A keyboard solo, which is very Jordan Rudess-esque, is interjected near the track’s end. I have no qualms reporting that the personnel are extremely talented.

Interestingly enough, “Dazzle the Devil” utilizes guitar shredding soon after its inception, and the guitar traipses about for what seems like minutes; when, in reality, it only runs amok for a select amount of seconds. I began to tire after listening to only half the album, because the music is overwhelmingly masturbatory. However, “Back to the Dark” was a pleasant surprise insomuch that its darkness is unique to “The Astral Episode.” Solos, leads, and more of each ensue. “Presence of Mind” has a nice energy, and keyboards inject some flavor into the mix. It’s the only instrumental to be found on the disc. We’ve heard everything in “Reversation” before, but “The Seventh Star Fantasy” is both embarrassing (terrible vocals in places) and grand (choirs).

I’m nearly always conflicted about endorsing progressive metal bands, cause I think the shtick has lost most of its appeal. There are definitely anomalies, though. So, if you fancy Symphony X and blistering instrumentation, then “The Astral Episode” may be just what you’re looking for. Me? To answer your question, it’s not really what I was looking for.

[This review was first published on the now defunct scandinavianmetal.info webzine]

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