While not wanting to disagree with the other two reviews, I think this is best described as a good solid debut with flashes of real quality - as opposed to a classic. Post Neal Morse SB is a different band, and this album demonstrates that clearly. Less symphonic and more straight-forward it might be, but it doesn't mean it is poor - far from it. "Ghosts of Autumn" and "East of Eden ..." are two of the best songs ever done by SB. The other songs range from good to OK. The epic ("Sid") has its high points, but somehow doesn't quite completely work.

The accompanying tour was very good, but sadly they didn't play the best two tracks! Odd!

So, a worthy debut with a couple of gems. Well worth a listen or two ...

This album is Spock's Beard's first since the departure of the talented Neal Morse (who left the band to begin writing and singing Christian rock), and it shows - new singer (and ex-drummer) Nick D'Virgillio is a very technically proficient singer, but he lacks the passion that Morse put into his vocals.

Not to say that this is a bad album - far from it - the lyrics are still well-written and meaningful, and the music still feels like Spock's Beard of old, which is what really counts here - the band has gone through a transition and yet still retain the core style they have always shown. While not in the same league as their last album "Snow", which was a concept album that told a particular story, this album is easily a match for "V", and belongs in any prog-rock fans' collection. If you haven't got it yet, why not?

Highlights of this album are "The Bottom Line", "East of Eden, West of Memphis", "Ghosts of Autumn", and the epic "A Guy Named Sid" suite.

I can't believe i'm the first to write a review for this. Where are all you prog nutters?

Listen, the message is simple, this is the BEST music i have heard, and i have heard PLENTY. I can't get enough of this stuff because i get something new from it on every listen. The music is simply awesome and varied. huge powerfull riffs, melodic, sing along friendly (well caterwaul actually ) or just spine tinglingly beautiful. I took a long time to discover Spocks Beard and any music fan must hear these guys. Trust me on this, this band should be big. Lets make 'em big, they deserve it!