Guilty Pleasure
The title gives it all away! ‘Arjen Lucassens Guilt Machine-On This Perfect Day’ is the latest operatic progressive rock masterpiece courtesy of the multi talented Arjen Lucassen (Ayreon/Star One/ Vengeance etc) and for once its not Sci-Fi related. Not one to be content with resting on ones laurels Arjen this time has gone for a typical ‘band approach’ and OTPD strongly benefits this format, this time only bringing in one vocalist, Jasper Steverlinck, who’s old vocal style typically is very much removed from what fellow followers would expect(pop/electronic), but steps up to the prog plate with mighty aplomb. He has a varied style, one minute cloning the sound of Matt Bellamy in some of the heavier passages, the next giving vocal stylings of Freddie Mercury. It really has been a coup recruiting Jasper as he gives the songs a certain emotive quality, sometimes lacking with other bands
Also involved is lead guitarist (and Arjen’s Personal Manager) Lori Lindstruth (Stream of Passion/Warbride) a guitarist of unbridled excellence; part Vai/Friedman/Gilbert and is simply stunning to listen to. Lori is also responsible for all the lyrics, and has really grappled with her conscience and come out the other end with some dark and open-ended lyrics exploring the destructive psychology of guilt, regret and the darkest form of secret-the secrets we hide from ourselves. Bringing up the rear is Ed Wh..., I’m so used to expecting him to be occupying the stool. New to Arjen’s projects is ex Porcupine Tree drummer Chris Maitland, a coup for OTPD having both the power for the heavy sections and the subtle touch needed in the more atmospheric parts of the album.
The songs are mainly long, "epic" tracks that feature dynamic contrasts between softer, dreamy sections and powerful, heavy passages. There are intricate harmonies, complex rhythms, soaring melodies, and an eclectic selection of instruments; all what you'd expect from an AYREON release, and is certainly on a par with anything previously released from the Electric Castle.
None are exactly radio friendly as 75% clock in at over ten minute tracks. The length is unimportant, its the quality on offer that takes you on a ride and makes the length completely irrelevant. Opening tracks ‘Twisted Coil’ and ‘Leland Street’ have ALL the great progressive elements, the first half, mellow and pulsating, akin to Pink Floyd and Porcupine Tree, before letting rip into darker and heavier passages. The songs are entwined with messages from fans throughout the world speaking their thoughts on guilt, regret, life, death and human nature. The absolute highlights are the masterstroke in finding Jasper Steverlinck, combined with the haunting guitar talents of Lori Linstruth. OTPD is a Lucassen project that is up there with the very best of his works to date. Another masterpiece!
For fans of Pink Floyd, Queensryche (Mindcrime era), Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, and of course Ayreon