Roby86

A great character! Excellent recovery...

Honestly, after thoroughly re-listening to their discography, I definitely prefer the Spock of the post-Morse era. Simplifying the structure was a great choice... up until "Snow," there were just too many forced elements: you could tell everything was done well, but it lacked the necessary naturalness. - In my opinion, this is probably the best album of their career. It's fresh and flows nicely, with the right level of sophistication (without veering into mere mannerism): a big step forward after the already more than good "Feel Euphoria." - It's a shame that the latest self-titled album has lost a bit of its edge, trying to take different paths... but without actually committing to any of them. - The best track on "Octane": "The Ballet Of The Impact." But in reality, they're all pretty much of high quality. The score is a solid 4 stars.

I’m revisiting this after quite some time to amend my judgment. I must admit that at first, I couldn't fully appreciate it... it was the first time I listened to Rush, and I still had to digest their unique style. Now I can certainly say that this album is a masterpiece (like all their albums from "Fly By Night" to "Grace Under Pressure")... all fantastic tracks. "Bastille Days," "The Necromancer," and "Lakeside Park" are amazing; "The Fountain Of Lameth" is a bit unfocused but has a great impact... also amusing is "I Think I'm Going Bald." - The rating goes up to 5 stars.

As usual, after thoroughly listening to the album, I reconfirm my rating for the review. - For me, the album is definitely valid. Above all, it’s very energetic... it "pushes" well on average. Perhaps a few less ballads would have benefited it, favoring the more "upbeat" tracks... but overall, I repeat, we are at high levels. High-quality AOR. - Well done, Shoot, a connoisseur as always!

Given the votes, I'll get it right away!!!

Nice review Pibroch... I listened to the album a long time ago and I don't remember it very well (so I'll refrain from voting), but it didn't impress me that much...

Never heard of them... sounds like good music from what I've read. I might like it even though I'm not a big fan of the Canterbury scene and the like. I like the samples but only at times: I'll try to listen to the whole CD!

Wow... is it really possible that good events are never advertised the way they deserve? In just over thirty minutes of travel, I would have been there, especially since I often go to the Fnac in Milan. Instead... nothing! I hope it comes back to the area soon. - Good review!

I sincerely hope it's a good return, given that (as you rightly point out) "Somewhere Else" was quite disappointing. I will listen to it as soon as I can!

Reviewing to give five stars to this excellent album. Truly a beautiful sound... rich and very 'tight'. Thank you for this recommendation!