In many ways, this two-CD rock opera is Arjen Anthony Lucassen’s masterpiece, and only a minor shortage of heavy distortion keeps this from meriting a mid-9 rating. It's a sweeping, majestic experience, a true rock opera in that each character is voiced by a different vocalist. This allows the listener to empathize with the characters, making this one album where the story is as important as the music.
As with most Ayreon projects, the vocals are nothing short of spectacular, with Lucassen assembling an all-star group of singers and coaxing peak performances out of them. This time around, notables include Damian Wilson (ex-Threshold) and Anneke van Giersbergen (The Gathering). In the story, eight stereotypical people from various times throughout human history are taken on a journey in space. The listener, on the other hand, is taken on a journey through the history of rock music, as one can find a half dozen styles and influences scattered about, with two or three different styles often to be found in the same song.
The album begins with "Isis and Osiris," a stunning 11-minute epic that stands among the finest prog metal songs ever recorded - it contains virtually every element that defines the genre. It's followed up with "Amazing Flight," the first part of which features a bluesy groove and some great solo work by Arjen on guitar, while the second half has a 70’s rock opera feel, reminding of the Who classic "Tommy". "Time Beyond Time" follows with the Pink Floyd vibe that Ayreon is widely known for. Other highlights abound, including "Across The Rainbow Bridge," which reminds of Journey for three minutes or so before transitioning to a more menacing prog metal sound. "Valley of the Queens" is an achingly beautiful ballad (although the Floor Jansen version to be found on Star One's "Live On Earth" admittedly one-ups it), and "Castle Hall" and "The Two Gates" are among the heavier offerings.
Some "traditional" metal fans may balk a bit at the overall heaviness of this release, as at times it tilts more towards progressive rock than progressive metal. But the melodies and rhythms that Lucassen writes and performs are heavy -- if that makes sense. And as can be attested from the Star One live release, when these tracks are performed with a full stack of Marshalls at one's back ("Castle Hall," etc.), there's not much out there that is heavier. In any case, if you’re a fan of progressive metal and rock music in general, give this disc full attention, following the lyric sheet and immersing yourself in the cosmic journey - it’s well worth the trip.

TRACK LIST:
1. Welcome to the New Dimension
2. Isis and Osiris
3. Amazing Flight
4. Time Beyond Time
5. The Decision Tree (We're Alive)
6. Tunnel of Light
7. Across the Rainbow Bridge
8. Garden of Emotions
9. Valley of the Queens
10. The Castle Hall
11. Tower of Hope
12. Cosmic Fusion
13. The Mirror Maze
14. Evil Devolution
15. The Two Gates
16. "Forever" of the Stars
17. Another Time, Another Space