Neal Morse [Import]

Neal Morse [Import]

Track Listings

1. Living Out Loud

2. Lost Cause

3. Landslide

4. That Which Doesn't Kill Me

5. Everything Is Wrong

6. Nowhere Fast

7. Emma

8. Whole Nother Trip / Bomb That Can't Explode / Mr. Upside Down / Man Who Would Be King It's Alright

Tracks:

The Door-Introduction, In The Name Of God, All I ask For, Mercy For Sale, Keep Silent, Upon The Door
The Conflict-Do You Know My Name, Party To The Lie, Underground, Two Down One To Go, The Vineyard, Already Home
Heaven In My Heart
The Conclusion-Randy's Jam, Long Night's Journey, Re-Introduction, Come Out Of Her, Clothed With The Sun, In Closing

Customer Reviews:

Great music........2007-07-25

Hi,

Great CD. Quite progressive overall (not in a metal sense because there are many styles in the CD, but more in a classic progressive way... long songs, complex music structures, complex rythms, changes, then repeating again a melody that you heard 15 minutes before... well, you know...), so maybe it is not for everybody's tastes (my wife couldn't stand it!) but for me, this is one of the best releases in the last years. Awesome vocal and instrumental parts, with melodies! And, probably, the most beautiful guitar solo in recent times by Paul Gilbert in "The Door"... yes, you have to wait 27 minutes for the solo... but the rest of the song is great too!

If you can stand a 30 minutes song, then this is definitively a CD for you. Neal Morse has an immense creativity.

Regards,
Fran

Why the controversy?.......2007-07-06

Bravo, brother Neal.

You just have to admit that the organized church was corrupt. Not only were the upper eschalon of the Catholic church murdering, torturing and persecuting in the name of dogma and political influence, they were keeping the faithful of the general public illiterate and uninformed. This was the insult behind the tragedy. Not only did Luther champion a correct doctrinal stance, but he attempted to put the Word of God in the hands of the common people. This way the servant and the aristocrat could hold each other accountable to what the Bible said about sin and salvation. Without the ability to open up your Bible and read for yourself what God has spoken in His eternal self-revelation, you and I are condemned to just blind ignorance and the tyranical whims of the power-hungry in the church.

The Protestant movement was the plot light of the literacy movement in that age. Just like when Alexander the Great made "the whole world" speak, read and write Greek, it was really God setting the first century world up for the spreading of the Gospel. And today, English is this international language (economics, medicine, science) with which God has set the modern world up to hear His Word again.

Illiteracy is how the Cathholic Chruch remained unchallenged and kept the masses ignorant in the things of God. The people were crippled in defending themselves against the tyrany and unable to find the narrow road that leads to eternal life. It's a good thing that "one of them" decided to expose the charade and, paying a the highest price, sparked the movement that would bring the light of the Word of God to the English speaking world. Today there is no excuse. You can buy a Bible at Walmart. People in the civlized world are with out roadblock when it comes to the availability ot the word of God. If you really want to know what God has said in the Bible, you can read it for yourself.

Sadly, today as I try to evangelize in a mostly Catholic city, I find the masses still ignorant about the Bible's requrements for salvation. No one has had any idea of what being born again is, although Jesus states it is a requirement for entrance into the kingdom of God (John 3:3). In over 13 years of being saved, I've had only one challenging conversation at work with a Catholic who actually quoted the Bible to support his beliefs. Most Catholics I talk to remain in sin and out of touch with God because of family intimidation, sports-fan-type loyalty, and Biblical illiteracy...but rarely for anything as unique and genuine as a Biblical conversion, deliverance from the bondage sin, or a healing miracle in their body that can only be credited to God Himself. Ceremony and tradition have replaced repentence and the genuine fruits of faith, as Jesus and John the Baptist would have noted.

Even more sad though, is the ammount of Protestant Christians that are just as illiterate and happily so. Ther are people that know more about "The Purpose Driven Life" than the sanctified God-pleasing life. They haven't enough Biblical fortitude to discern the modern "golden calf" message behind weak kneed "Christian" self-help gurus. Christians today willingly buy into "Your Best Life Now" and other Christian Pop junk food instead of biblically striving for God's best life on His time table. We are more content to be entertained and call it worship rather than listen to the word of God in an unpopular-but-biblical sermon that lasts longer than 20 minutes. For shame. If it keeps going this direction, we may have to "come out of her" again.

I'm glad for Neal Morse's sake that burning at the stake is illegal now. Face up to the truth, people, don't be like Nazis that try to deny the Holocost. There's no Catholic bashing here, just well-informed songwriting. Why bash a Catholic when you can just get one saved?

Oh yeah, by the way, the music on this album is Neal's best yet.

Great Continuation of Neal Morse in his grandure........2007-07-01

Neal Morse for a long time now has struck me as a musical genious. Just recently above all his album ? has certainly struck me genious and my favorite. Aside from that when I picked up Neal Morses' new Sola Scriptura and put it in to listen to, I was blown away to find that the musical genious still layed in layers of smartness, cleverness, and pure thrill of a good listen. The only thing I had wrong with the album was the cliche lyrics. As good as the spirituality is, this lyrical mesh didn't strike me as deep as the other three genious albums he's released. I try my hardest not to compare to other albums, but when you know his lyrical topics and writings could be better, it's hard to listen to the words... so that's why I listen to the music.

If your looking for a good rock fused metal with some symphonic influence baried deep in the heavy goodness, you'll find yourself quite satisfied with the movements of these few songs. Plus you'll get a good half an hour song to enjoy on your free time. I've always been a person to love long songs, and these did not disapoint me in the least. Per say, I'm quite in love with the motion of these songs. The door is really the only song on this album I had a hard time with, it's a good song, but not to the bestest lyrical quality right, but the music is still in the highest motion of pure entertainment. However, in this goodness of rock fused metal, you will find that the riffs are hard and the transitions are top notch. Also, the complexity of the song remains to the truest of Neal Morses standards, plus not to include Portnoy's (Dream Theater) backing, with a bit of Rudess (Dream Theater as well) and our favorite bass guitarist. Anywho, I would recommend this to anyone whose looking for some awsome rock, incredible intricate melodies/movements/riffs, and just enjoys longs songs that take you on a wonderful adventure through the theological mind of Morse. This is for any prog rock lover, but also a generic rock fan who doesn't mind a song exceeding 5 minutes, let alone 25 minutes. So however you'd like to do that, enjoy its simplicity, not, enjoy its complexity very much. 4 stars to another successful album.

Thank you for another trip to the well.......2007-06-29

Joe Walsh said, "It's like your favorite station, playing your favorite song. Over and over. On the radio . . ." to explain how the music spilled from him. Neal Morse makes that creative out-pouring seem so much more profound.

The beauty of the life in the age of the iPod is how accessible one's music collection. I mention this thought because, as I listened to Sola Scriptura, I realized that Neal Morse is slowly unveiling one great work as he pours forth from his well-spring of genius.

This album continues the journey and weaves hits of previous melodies and words to help carry us forward.

Listen to them all together, in order . . . what a wonder of creation.

I just realized the irony of mentioning Joe Walsh . . . now Neal Morse will never have to play, "that Eagles song" again. He has plenty of music playing on his own radio station to keep him busy for many years to come.

Simply Great Music, Well-Performed.......2007-06-17

I'm a huge Neal Morse fan, I think he's one of the great composers of our time. He's not going to surprise us, we expect complex dramatic symphonic arrangements and he keeps delivering the goods. I admit it, I don't pay much attention to the words and I'm not a religious guy, so the bible-thumping washes over me without affect. It doesn't bother me. I love great progressive music and Neal is a modern-day genius at providing it.

One thing deserves special note. Mike and Randy comprise one of the best rhythm sections in the business. They mesh tightly with a muscular precision. Randy's punchy and precise playing is a awesome. His mellow tone (and brief bass solo) in Two Down One To Go is smooth and amazing. Mike is a worldclass powerhouse. Neal is lucky to have such talented players adding substance to his grand compositions.

Average customer rating:

Neal Morse
Stunning Solo Prog Debut from this genius
Neal Really Shines
Pretty Special
Real christian prog

One
Neal Morse
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

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Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

?
Testimony
Sola Scriptura
Snow
Bridge Across Forever

ASIN: B00065Y8UW
Release Date: 2004-11-02

Tracks:

The Creation
The Man's Gone
Author Of Confusion
The Separated Man
Cradle To The Grave
Help Me/The Spirit And The Flesh
Father Of Forgiveness
Reunion

Album Description

Progressive/Christian Rock ARTIST BIO: At long last. The holy grail of prog! Take great artists like NEAL MORSE, MIKE PORTNOY and PHIL KEAGGY and put them together and...LOOK OUT! Here's how one reviewer put it: "Take Transatlantic, the orchestral beauty of Testimony and some clear nods to the prog greats of Genesis, YES, and Gentle Giant, along with some lesser pop sounds like old Tears For Fears and some Who derived moments and Neal's inescapable Beatles influence and you have it all." This is ONE great album! He goes on to say: "Speaking of Portnoy. Hold on to your socks! There are some absolute freak out moments of drum god envy going on! I mean that guy has done some freaky stuff with Dream Theater to say the least but there are a couple of tunes on here like "Author Of Confusion" that were seemingly written to give Portnoy the opportunity to shine, I dare say, brighter than ever before!" Here's what Neal had to say about it: "The Lord works in mysterious ways. I never thought this album was going to turn out as good as I think it has. I was stuck writing it for months. All along feeling like I needed help, knowing I had something, but also knowing it wasn't quite 'there'. I felt like it needed collaborators, but had no idea who those collaborators were. Then, along came Randy George (who was part of the Testimony band) and the correct missing words and music seemed to just roll off the tip of his tongue. He would say a line and I would shake my head, stunned, saying 'wow... that's IT!' Enter Mike Portnoy who is not just a master drummer but also a master at arranging parts and musical passages and almost immediately it took shape and was, well, almost PERFECT! Can you tell I'm excited?"

This album essentially tells the story of man's creation/separation/reunion with God. But, of course, that is not unique. What's unique about this album is the way in which the familiar story is told, with sweeping grand passages as well as heavy prog and emotionally wrenching songs, this is truly a unique album the likes of which has never been attempted before.

Also featured on the album is the guitar work and vocals of the great PHIL KEAGGY who also sings a duet with Neal ("The Cradle to the Grave").

Customer Reviews:

Neal Morse.......2007-06-08

This is an ambitious and interesting listen, and worth purchasing for the arrangements alone - though in all honesty it is recorded and mixed as a somewhat dynamically limited album, and that is too bad - as it is instrumentally and lyrically quite provocative... but also about 10 years out of date - late or early I cannot say. But it is not resonating with me (as of yet) in a powerful way.

One of the prime reasons for this is that this is regrettably only an average album on the basis of vocal performance. Neal Morse obviously has great vision and executes well, but simply doesn't have the pipes to front this type of music, a range equal to Jon Andersons or Larry Normans (as it IS a Christian album) would be really welcome... that being said - I am still glad I bought it - as it is unique. Neal should seriously consider partnering with a singer capable of realizing more versatility and the best in this music.

Stunning Solo Prog Debut from this genius.......2007-02-15

After making a couple of singer-songwriter type solo albums while still a member of Spock's Beard, Neal Morse started making solo prog albums once he left the Beard in 2002. One is his second one, and is stunning. The band he has assembled (which has played on ALL of his solo prog outings...Randy George on bass and Mike Portnoy on drums) is spectacular, as is Neal's virtuosity on the keyboards, piano, guitars, and vocals.

For me the standouts on this disc are the two 20 minute epics The Creation and The Separated Man, and the metal riff-fest Author of Confusion. However, this entire albums is just amazing. It tells the story of a man's spiritual separation and eventual rebirth with God. Don't let the religious themes of Neal's solo prog albums deter you. Even though I myself am a devout Christian, I cringe away from any Christian Rock...however, Neal is not beating you over the head with it, and rarely does he prosteletyze.

If you are a fan of Spock's Beard, Dream Theater, Rush, or just damn good prog, this is a can't-miss album.

Neal Really Shines.......2007-02-14

I have never had an album have the effect that this album has had on me. I actually emailed Neal to thank him personally for writing this album and listening to God's call in his life, The Man is BLESSED. I have read probably every review here, and I would say the only negative ones are those who are self absorbed humanists who can't bare the thought of someone not believing we came from monkeys. If you don't like God, that is a personal problem, don't trash Neal because he see's something that you Wont!!! and I stress WONT!!!!. Musically you can not deny how awesome this album is. Being a Christian, Neal has touched every emotion in me. I am a biker with a rough and tough look and former background which God changed when I accepted Jesus. I have to say hearing "From the cradle to the grave" crippled me with tears, as does the rest of the album as I sit back and listen to Neal paint the picture of the lengths that a loving God will go to just to reconcile us to himself. For those who are offended, I am sorry you feel that way, because Neal really has captured the love that God has for you, and I didn't find this album to be the least bit condemning. I highly recommend this album, especially if you are a Christian who enjoys harder edged rock and prog. I do not feel this album should be judged on the lyrics alone, the music is absolutely superb, especially with the likes of Mike Portnoy on drums, and Randy George on bass, and a guest appearance by Phil Keaggy. This album can't be beat

Pretty Special.......2007-01-20

"One" is a pretty special album. There was a time where it never left my CD player, I really enjoy it. Pretty emotional in places. There's some beautiful music here, big but intimate, with some interesting sounds and styles along the way: synths, strings, bit of brass, some guitars and drumming too. It's a concept album of man and God, full of clever Christian imagery.

Real christian prog.......2006-11-24

I finally found a prog music with solid christian lyrics in a mix of wisdom and virtuousity. "The creation" really leads you to figure out the begining in absolute amazing harmony along the themes. "Author of confusion" is other gem that shows Neal's creativity to sing about the enemy's tricks. Well, I just want to give thanks to Neal,Mike and Randy for their music!

Average customer rating:

Neal's first post-Beard solo album is amazing
Why did I wait?
Essential Neal Morse solo music
conversion to christianity
Not merely for the ears...

Testimony
Neal Morse
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

One
?
Sola Scriptura
Snow
Bridge Across Forever

ASIN: B0000C7PRY
Release Date: 2003-09-23

Tracks:

The Land Of Beginning Again
Overture No.1
California Nights
Colder in the Sun
Sleeping Jesus
Interlude
The Prince of the Power of the Air
The Promise
Wasted Life
Overture No. 2
Break of Day
Power in the Air
Somber Days
Long Story
It's All I Can Do

Tracks:

Transformation
Ready to Try
Sing it High
Moving in my Heart
I Am Willing
In the Middle
The Storm Before the Calm
Oh, to Feel Him
God's Theme
Overture No. 3
Rejoice
Oh Lord My Lord
God's Theme 2
The Land of Beginning

Album Description

2 Disc Box set including a booklet of "Testimony notes" with Neal's reflections on each track. . ARTIST BIO:: When NEAL MORSE left SPOCK'S BEARD, the band he founded with his brother in Los Angeles in 1992, legions of SB fans around the world were left wondering if they would hear from Neal ever again. To many fans, SPOCK'S BEARD was Neal, or at least Neal's musical vision. As the band's primary songwriter and lead vocalist, the only apparent reason to leave the highly acclaimed musical juggernaut at the height of their global popularity, would be to set away from music all together...

History...

Neal grew up in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles throughout the 60's and 70's. His father was a choral director and his influence on Neal was quite significant, teaching him to harmonize at an early age and exposing him to many different styles of music. Neal began taking piano lessons at the age of five, sang lead in the opera "Amahl and the Night Visitors" at the tender age of nine, and picked up the guitar soon afterwards. Throughout his twenties, Neal wrote about a million songs and played all over Los Angeles trying to get a deal as a singer/songwriter. In between writing two full-scale musicals, Neal also played sessions for Al Stewart, Peter White and Skipper Wise amongst others.

In his early thirties, Morse grew restless with the LA scene and packed up his things to go travel around Europe, busking in the streets and playing in small clubs. Neal found the experience to be quite valuable and after having played all over Hamburg, Berlin and Paris, he returned to the US and decided to form the band Spock's Beard with his brother Alan. Recruiting a line up of top session musicians, the band recorded it's debut album, "The Light" in 1994, an album which critics have called one of the best progressive albums of the last ten years. The band (with Neal) has recorded five studio albums and one live album ("Beware Of Darkness", "The Kindness Of Strangers", "Day For Night", "V", "Snow" and "The Beard Is Out There - Live") and have been hailed as one of the best progressive bands on the scene.

In 2002, after the release of Spock's Beard's epic 2 CD concept album "Snow", Neal inexplicably left the group. The timing could not have been stranger, as "Snow" received unanimous beaming reviews from writers around the world.

Well, fortunately for his audience and seemingly overnight, Neal is far from done, and is more likely just getting started. In similar step with his SPOCK'S BEARD swansong "Snow", Neal has fashioned yet another double disc of stunning music. "Testimony" is a new beginning for Neal, and a glorious musical beginning it is. Neal's musical output is, for lack of a better word, staggering. 21 tracks include all the elements Neal has become famous for, a cappella multi-harmonic vocal sections, thought provoking lyrics and the top shelf musicianship lacking in most popular music today. Neal has broadened his musical breadth on "Testimony" including, for the first time, members of the NASHVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA. Neal even has even gone so far as to reach out to one of his own musical influences, KERRY LIVGREN (KANSAS), who graciously contributed to "Testimony". Long time friend and TRANSATLANTIC collaborator, MIKE PORTNOY (Dream Theater) also refused to be left behind, and can be heard behind the drum kit on the entire album. You can hear Neal's newfound enthusiasm on "Testimony", it's the sound of a modern musical master, and quite a testimony it is.

Customer Reviews:

Neal's first post-Beard solo album is amazing.......2007-03-10

I think the title of my review says it all. Testimony was released a year after Neal quit Spock's Beard and its 2 CDs are basically his autobiography as told through music. There was genuine concern among fans whether we'd ever hear from Neal musicall again. As an artistic achievement as well as a musical work, it is quite simply stunning. Neal plays guitars, bass, and keyboards and handles all the lead vocals. He's joined (as he is on all of his post-Beard solo discs) by the superb Mike Portnoy on drums as well as a cast of musicians on strings and backing vocals.

The double disc set starts with Neal singing about the "Land of Beginning Again" before busting into a killer Overture, No.1 to be exact. I'm not going to go into detail here as this album is long and has so many high spots (2 hours!). However, some of my favorites that stick out are the 3 overtures, Ready to Try, Break of Day, California Nights, The Prince of the Power of the Air, Sleeping Jesus, and the suite containing Oh Lord My God.

As far as story goes, the album chronicles Neal's attempts in his 20s to make it in the California singer/songwriter scene, where he played loads of long gigs for little pay. Getting depressed and bitter and dumped by his girlfriend, he hits his lowest ebb as he enters his early 30s. However, he begins to pary and go to church. He moves to Nashville, meets his future wife, gets married, starts having kids, Spock's Beard begins to take off, and he's finally a huge success. But something inside him is restless, and through his spiritual quest, he embraces his Christian faith, leaves the Beard after 8 years and 6 KILLER albums (culminating in his opus with SB, Snow), and begins anew with this disc. Obviously I wish Neal hadn't quit the Beard, but they and he have both done fine since the split.

Even though I am a devout Christian, I usually run the other direction screaming from Christian music. However, Neal's lyrics can be positive and uplifting even if you don't agree with his Christian message, and the musicianship and passion with which all of his work comes across is certainly worth the price of admission alone.

In short, this is a stunning achievement and well worth your time!

Why did I wait?.......2007-02-26

You know, it's almost impossible to not address this as a Christian work - but don't jump down my throat until you read the next paragraph:

I truly feel like an IDIOT because I let my Agnosticism keep me from purchasing any of Neal's Christian albums. Truthfully, that was absolutely THE DUMBEST REASON ON EARTH not to buy this. (And I not only bought this disc, I bought "?" and "One," which I also love.)

As a fan of Neal-era Spock's Beard, and Transatlantic, I should have gotten this MUCH sooner than I did. If one is to look at religion as an intellectual topic rather than a spiritual one, then you really should have no problem with this album. Consider also that Mr. Portnoy is Jewish, and apparently could put his own religious beliefs aside to play on Neal's Christian works. So, really, if he can get over it, why can't you?

Now that we've gotten that out of the way ... this is perhaps Neal's masterwork, and one that should be in any progressive rock fan's library. This isn't too far off of the Spock's Beard path, nor the Transatlantic path - it's just more epic in scope. The orchestrations and arrangements are nothing sort of brilliant. Neal's sense of melody and thematic development have always been what drew me to all of his work - that, and the amount of sonic diversity that you get, both within an album as a whole, and very often within the context of a single track. If this is what you like about Neal's work, then you will not be disappointed in the least. The playing here is top notch as well - when have you heard Mike Portnoy not turn in a jaw dropping performance on the drums? - and lyrically, I don't suppose you can get much more personal than this; Whether or not you care about Jesus or God or any of that, this is Neal's story. And if you respect the man and his work, you can put your personal hangups aside to listen to him.

My only regret is that I didn't get over mine sooner. And while this album has not affected my views on Christianity, it certainly made me consider the amount of cynicism and hypocrisy in my life had reached ridiculous levels when I let something like religious beliefs (or lack thereof) get in the way of listening to something that is so compositionally brilliant and truly a work of genius.

Essential Neal Morse solo music.......2007-02-06

This CD tells the story of a musician struggling both professionaly and spiritually. The songs are well crafted and full of excellent musicianship with some high caliber guest musicians including Kerry Livgren and Mike Portnoy (who is still Neal's studio drummer).

The second disc has some pretty powerful musical/spiritual moments that will really move anyone who is not closed off to Christianity.

conversion to christianity.......2006-06-14

insofar as music expresses and conveys human emotions and experience, neal got music. neal got tune. neal got soul. if anyone knows of a better musical representation of the human experience of conversion to christianity (tumoil/conflict -> inspiration/revelation -> peace) than the four tracks on the 2nd cd: In the Middle, The Storm Before the Calm, Oh, to Feel Him, God's Theme, please tell me. beyond these four tracks, there are many other memorable high points on this work. the totality of neal's contribution to christian music in a few short years (testimony / one / ?) is mind-boggling. hard to believe he's not a "cradle-christian". wow. i'm a fan.

Not merely for the ears..........2006-06-01

This is amazing stuff. Music for the heart, not only for the ears. Morse met Jesus and found LIFE. This music is incredibly alive!

Average customer rating:

Very Self indulgement But Very Good
What's the Title?
A prog masterpiece...keep your minds open
Another amazing album from Neal
Excellent symphonic progressive rock

?
Neal Morse
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

One
Sola Scriptura
Testimony
Paradox Hotel
Wall Street Voodoo

ASIN: B000BI1YJW
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Tracks:

The Temple Of The Living God
Another World
The Outsider
Sweet Elation
In The Fire
Solid As The Sun
The Glory Of The Lord
Outside Looking In
12
Entrance
Inside His Presence
The Temple Of The Living God

Album Description

This album is shrouded in mystery. Temporarily called 'The Secret Project' and now appropriately titled simply "?", this CD consists of one 55 minute track that explores the mysteries of God. It is pure prog heaven with all the earmarks of Neal's previous work plus development into new areas. This is a dazzling piece of music that some are already calling Neal's best work yet. From heavy sections where Alan Morse (Neal's brother and fellow founder of neo-prog giants 'Spock's Beard') and Jordan Rudess from Dream Theater trade solos, to sections that feature the massively creative mind of Mr. Roine Stolt (Flower Kings) that bring back recollections of Neal's other ex-band Transatlantic, this album is a progressive rock fans dream! Built on the musical foundation of multi-award winning drummer Mike Portnoy and the bass of Ajalon's Randy George, this is another instant classic from the creator of "Snow" and "Bridge Across Forever". Featuring a guest appearance by original Genesis guitar wizard Steve Hackett. As for the subject matter of the album: Neal says "If you show someone a door and say 'here's a door, walk through it' they'll probably say 'forget it'! But, if you show them a wall and say 'there's a door here somewhere…find it!' it becomes much more interesting. It is always more interesting when you find something for yourself rather than someone showing you something they found."

Customer Reviews:

Very Self indulgement But Very Good.......2007-07-30

Progressive rock's Neal Morse is a very extremly talented dude. ? is a masterpiece in Progressive rock. I am Roman Catholic and love the lyrics in this album. Iam not a religious freak, but the lyrics remind me of who I am. As far as the song writing,it is so good! You have to be a talented self indulgent person to write music like this. Even though it stretches the limits,(well this is progressive rock isn't it?) it will grab you and keep you there for the ride. Neal has some great talent to back him up too. Neal's presence in Spock's Beard will be missed, but if he keeps making great music like this, I will be coming back for more.

What's the Title?.......2007-03-12

I figured I'd write my review on this since I wrote a review on Sola Scriptura today. With this release Neal really isn't trending in any new direction musically. The overall concept is a good one for the spiritual angle. No one in Christian music today is taking theme's like Neal and exploring them musically. Christian artists today are very staisfied to record the same worship songs over and over and over again hoping the public will buy them. Neal, at least, has the guts to step up and deliver a solid performance and deliver some very unique material that not one Christian artist would even consider doing today. Hats off. As always this cd has all the trademarks of Spock's and Transatlantic which goes without saying that it blows away anything else out there.

A prog masterpiece...keep your minds open.......2007-03-08

I won't re-hash what the other reviewers have already said so eloquently. To sum it up, this album is indeed wonderful, "a masterpiece," and IMHO should be added to any serious prog rock listener's catalog. There simply aren't many artists/bands out there today putting out this level of quality music. To dismiss Neal Morse because of his lyrics will cause you to miss out on some outstanding, cutting-edge music.

As an open-minded Christian, I would like to offer this up to all the non-religious reviewers. I happen to like the group Pagans Mind (now what is a Christian doing listening to them?). I like them because they totally rock. Yes, they may be singing about aliens, constellations, and other worlds (kinda cheesy), but I can get past that and enjoy the music: mind-bending guitar work, hammering drums, and the soaring melodies.

All I ask is that you do the same with Neal Morse...enjoy the music because it is absolutely top-notch, and keep an open mind when it comes to the lyrics.

Another amazing album from Neal.......2007-02-15

? was Neal's third solo prog album and deals with the topic of the Tabernacle, which, to my understanding, was a traveling temple the Old Testament Jewish tribes used for worship. This ? album is basically one long piece of music split amongst its 12 tracks, bookended by The Temple of the Living God. In addition to the usual stellar solo band Neal has (Randy George and Mike Portnoy), there are also some killer guest stars, like his brother (and former Spock's Beard bandmate) Alan Morse, Portnoy's Dream Theater bandmate Jordan Rudess, Steven Hackett (original Genesis guitarist) and more. I can't really pull a highlight out of here....from the sweeping Temple of the Living God to the beautiful 12 to the anthemic Solid As the Sun, this is an album of staggering beauty and power.

I'll leave it to others to hash out an interpretation and to explain it to you. Take your own interpretation of the lyrics (which I see as the story of how early Christians replaced the tabernacle-style worship of the ancient Jews with worshipping Jesus' divinity as the Messiah) and enjoy this album musically and lyrically. Discover Neal's other solo albums, his incredible work with Spock's Beard and Transatlantic, and get ready for what looks to be a frigging AWESOME new solo album this March 2007 (Sola Scriptura).

Excellent symphonic progressive rock.......2006-12-12

Don't be misled by religious fanatics who confuse an album review with an opportunity to express their jaded dogma. This is about the music and Morse has created a wonderful journey with this cd that is more than satisfactory. Just the fact that he has Mike Portnoy on the drums should be enough to entice fans of this genre but when you add Steve Hackett and Jason Rudess to the mix it becomes a no-brainer. The fact that the subject matter is the temple of God shouldn't be a problem and if it is then simply imagine that he's talking about Greek mythology or something and you'll be fine. It's not preachy or holier-than-thou at all. Let the artist express himself, I say. At times his Genesis and King Crimson influences surface but, in the end, he stays true to himself and delivers a unique concept album that is never boring and always challenging and entertaining.

Average customer rating:

Excellent Studio Covers!
Excellent Musician's covering classic favorites
Great Covers Collection from Neal Morse and friends.

Cover to Cover
Neal Morse , Mike Portnoy , and Randy George
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Sola Scriptura
Spock's Beard
Fear of a Blank Planet
Milliontown
?

ASIN: B000HLDESM
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Tracks:

Pleasant Valley Sunday
Badge
Maybe I'm Amazed
Where Do The Children Play
I'm The Man
Feeling Stronger Everyday
Rock And Roll Suicide
Where The Streets Have No Name
Day After Day
What Is Life?
I'm Free/Sparks
Tuesday Afternoon
Find My Way Back Home

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Studio Covers!.......2007-04-11

Hey, this you will enjoy without a doubt. It's well recorded. It's simple, but it's got a "feel" for old rock classics!

Excellent Musician's covering classic favorites.......2007-02-06

If you are a fan of any of the members of Neal's solo projects, you'll enjoy this collection of cover songs that they recorded over the years. This really shows the range of Neal's vocal abilities and as always gives Mike Portnoy a chance to let us know how the drums should have been played.

I do recommend this CD to anyone who enjoys Spock's Beard, Dream Theater, Transatlantic, and obviously Neal Morse's solo work.

Great Covers Collection from Neal Morse and friends........2006-11-14

Throughout the recording sessions for Neal Morse's last three concept albums, he and sidekicks Randy George and Mike Portnoy would drop their serious musical side to play cover versions of their favorite songs. The "Cover To Cover" disc is the end result of what they did during their spare time in the studio.
Compiled from the "?", "One" and "Testimony" sessions, "Cover To Cover" is an absolute blast to listen to from beginning to end. While the feel is loose and spontaneous, it's never sloppy or slack. If anything, we are given another prime example of just how well Neal, Mike and Randy play off each other in these songs. You can tell just how much fun they were having especially in the versions of The Monkees "Pleasant Valley Sunday" and Joe Jackson's "I'm The Man". The take on Chicago's "Feeling Stronger Every Day" kicks rear end with a guest horn section and an extended jam outro. Christian rock legend and guitar extraordinaire Phil Keaggy joins the action for George Harrison's "What is Life?" which sounds uncanningly like a duet between Lennon and McCartney - Neal sounding like John Lennon, Phil sounding much like Paul McCartney. Mike Portnoy shows off his Keith Moon influence in The Who's "I'm Free/Sparks" while Neal's trademark progressive side is heard in the closing medley of The Moody Blues "Tuesday Afternoon" and Blind Faith's "Find My Way Back Home".
Guaranteed, this is a fantastic CD and is great music for driving the vehicle with. For fans of Neal Morse and Mike Portnoy, this is definitely a must. For the casual listener, this is a must for you as well.

Average customer rating:

A solo record with heart....fantastic
Prog pop
Good Solid Solo Debut from this MasterMind
Great Music
Very Good

Neal Morse
Neal Morse
Manufacturer: Metal Blade
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Singer-Songwriters | Pop | Styles | Music

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Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music

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It's Not Too Late
?
Testimony
One
Sola Scriptura

ASIN: B00001R3NP
Release Date: 1999-10-05

Tracks:

Living Out Loud
Lost Cause
Landslide
That Which Doesn't Kill Me
Everything Is Wrong
Nowhere Fast
Emma
A Whole Nother Trip: A. Bomb That Can't Explode
A Whole Nother Trip: B. Mr. Upside Down
A Whole Nother Trip: C. The Man Who Would Be King
A Whole Nother Trip: D. It's Alright

Customer Reviews:

A solo record with heart....fantastic.......2007-02-17

This is Neal Morse's first solo record, made in 1999 when he was in Spock's Beard. Neal handles everything on this record except drums (which are handled by his Spock's Beard bandmate Nick D'Virgilio). People looking for more Beard-like prog here will not find it. What you will find, however, is smart, funny, touching, rockin', wonderful poppy rock from a true genius. Not only is Neal's instrumental prowess impressive, he has a voice that can speak to your soul and he uses it to great effect on this record.

The opener, Living Out Loud, is a rocker and a fun way to open the album. The disc runs the gamut from wry songs like Lost Cause and Nowhere Fast ("There is this girl I know, she hates my guts I love her so"...had me cracking up!) to songs that literally made me cry (Landslide and the aching, touching Emma, especially because of Neal's voice). The album does, end, however, with a 23-minute prog epic, A Whole 'Nother Trip. This song is everything you'd expect from Beard-ed Neal, and it is an awesome way to close the album.

While Neal's post-Beard prog solo albums are incredible, the first two he did (this and It's Not Too Late), which are more singer-songwriterish, are still incredible pieces of music from this modern musical genius and definitely worth getting.

Prog pop.......2006-08-14

Interesting pop with little mini-prog nuggets. Clever, ironic lyrics that made me laugh out loud at least three times on the first listen. Includes a 20+ minute prog piece at the end.
The only significant problem is that Morse has bouncy, upbeat songs with depressing lyrics that don't match the music (Lost Cause). This is similar to Prince of the Power of the Air on Testimony.

Good Solid Solo Debut from this MasterMind.......2006-07-14

Neal Morse is one of the most talented and gifted writer/musicians that has emerged in the last ten years or so---don't even think of comparing more household names such as Kurt Cobain to Mr. Morse....sorry, he doesn't even hold a candle to neal's talents and body of works. I have never understood how guys like Neal have remained obscure to the listening public!?! Actually maybe I do---the "flock of sheep" have been led to fields of mundane, emotionless sounds of the herder (FM Radio). Anyone out there who doesn't believe the musical "Bar" has been severely lowered in the past decade is probably part of the "flock" mentioned above. Someone out there please help me understand how a band that has had their "nose to the grindstone" for 30+ years (such as RUSH) is outsold in total record sales by talentless "brats" who release 2 or 3 albums (Eminem, Bratney Spears, Etc)...I simply cannot comprehend this! What I DO understand is anyone out there looking for meaningful music has to go "searching" for it---it rarely finds you (as a shameless 'Plug', Amazon has been a great source for helping me discover good artists/music). Anyway, enough of my "venting". This album is in fact a 'Pop' record that could have easily made it to FM Radio had there been someone Keen or daring enough to give it a few spins...and I believe the listening public would have "taken" to this. Songs such as "Living Out Loud", "Nowhere Fast" and "Landslide" would have eventually caught almost anyone's ears. "Emma" and "Everything is Wrong" are very good compositions as well, though probably less 'radio-friendly' than above mentioned tunes. The remaining 'Pop' songs ("Lost Cause" and "That Which Doesn't Kill Me") are decent songs though quite 'generic' and far from 'groundbreaking'. The 'Epic', "A Whole Nother' Trip", is enjoyable enough after a few listens but pales in comparison to the epic-style songs produced by Spock's Beard---I'm sure Neal put this last song on here to try and satisfy SB fans who were wondering "just what in the heck is he trying to prove" with this release! I think the thing that makes this album enjoyable for me is that it sounds like something I've maybe heard before(though I can't put my finger on it), and at the same time, it sounds like NOTHING I've heard before. To sum it up, If you are looking for tasteful, pop-style music with a meaningful flair to it, this may be your ticket. On the other hand, if you are expecting 'over-the-top' progressive music, you are going to be let down with this one---I would strongly recommend Neal's "Testimony" or "One" releases for your progressive "Fix". Lastly, I would like to reiterate what other reviewers have stated about this man's "other-worldly" talents---not only does he play a "mean" set of Keys and guitar, he is quite adept at Bass guitar and Drums...not to mention his vocals and lyrical writing. Recommended along with almost everything this man has been involved with!

Great Music.......2004-08-27

Whoever said that Neal Morse was at his creative peak when he wrote this album was way off. V hadn't been released by the time this album came out. If you're what I so affectionately refer to as a "prog snob" then you may not like this album. As many have already said, it's more pop oriented. That having been said, it's really not AOR or radio friendly pop; but it is very well executed in true Neal Morse style.

I think anyone who enjoyed Kindness of Strangers or (to a lesser extent) Day for Night would like this album.

Neal Morse is the only man alive that I know of that writes "Pop" epics.

Very Good.......2003-11-19

As some have said, this is more pop with prog influence ... well, if only all pop these days was this good! Neal Morse crafted some excellent songs for this CD and it's not just all about the music. The lyrical content is interesting and engaging with just the right mix of humor, profundity and introspection.

I HIGHLY recommend this album to anyone who is a fan of good songwriting and excellent musicianship. Especially to anyone familiar with Neal Morse and like his work with Spock's Beard. I also recommend, "It's Not Too Late" his next solo effort.

Don't expect to hear Spock's Beard because this is just Neal. Be open to his individual expression and I don't think you'll be disappointed.

- Scriptor

Welcome to Paradise
Average customer rating:

What a show!

Welcome to Paradise
Randy Stonehill
Manufacturer: Special Friends Productions
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
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Glass Harp: Live at Carnegie Hall

Glass Harp

ASIN: B0007XYZPG

Product Description

1. King Of Hearts 2. Keep Me Runnin' 3. The Winner (High Card) 4. Lung Cancer 5. Puppet Strings 6. First Prayer 7. I've Got News For You 8. Song For Sarah 9. Christmas Song For All Year 'Round 10. Good News 11. News For You (original demo) 12. Heart Lock (never released)

Customer Reviews:

What a show!.......2005-06-03

I was fortunate enough to have been a part of the audience during this performance. Growing up, my mother exposed me to a lot of the music that I still find myself listening to today. In fact, she wore out the vinyl on the first Glass Harp's debut album.

It was my first time witnessing the band together as I had seen Keaggy play solo a few times prior to that night. Glass Harp embodies the three piece rock band sound. Add to it the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra and it turned out to be one magical night. I remember walking out of Powers Auditorium hoping that their performance was captured on master tapes and someday would be released to the public.

The following summer, I was back at Powers for a meet and autograph session with the band for the release of "Strings Attached". The cd quality is excellent and now I see myself following my mother's habit and wearing this two cd set out!

Average customer rating:

Good for the ears, great for the soul!

Sola Scriptura

ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Fear of a Blank Planet
Snakes & Arrows

ASIN: B000MEYHT4
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Album Description

Neal Morse has finished recording his latest prog masterpiece, and sent it off for mixing and mastering. This will be Neal's 4th progressive rock solo release, following the highly acclaimed albums ?, One, and Testimony. The amazing line-up of Mike Portnoy (drums) and Randy George (bass) return on this release, with the addition of special guest Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big) on guitar. Fans of Neal's looking for the ordinary will have to keep looking, though this one will be full of surprises.

Customer Reviews:

Good for the ears, great for the soul!.......2007-03-19

Unbelievable. Neal, Mike & Randy have done it again! How much excellent prog music can these guys produce?!? Sola Scriptura is a fantastic effort. Not only an amazing prog-rock epic, but lyrically inspirational too. If you enjoy audio smorgasbord - get ready for your fill!

Average customer rating:

This CD is a classic
So What if it's Not Prog?
fine and definitely not prog

It's Not Too Late
Neal Morse
Manufacturer: Inside Out U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

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Neal Morse
?
One
Testimony
Sola Scriptura

ASIN: B000067UNC
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

It's Not Too Late
All The Young Girls Cry
Leah
The Angels Will Remember
So Long Goodbye Blues
The Change
Broken Homes
Oh Augie
The Eyes Of The World (George's Song)
Ain't Seen Nothin' Like Me
I Am Your Father
Something Blue
The Wind + The Rain

Customer Reviews:

This CD is a classic.......2005-03-10

I've listened to this CD a number of times now and one has to wonder why Neal Morse isn't a household name. But, this is the tragedy of the age of Brocolli Spears and boy bands. Anyway, cuts like ALL THE YOUNG GIRLS CRY and THE CHANGE are great. Morse's voice is so unique. The music on this CD is impeccable. This is a recommended buy.

So What if it's Not Prog?.......2002-11-22

First off, I don't think anyone has complained lately about having too much Neal Morse around.

Now, this album is really good, even without having any "The Great Nothing"s, "The Doorway"s or "The Water"s. This is an album that both you and your girlfriend can enjoy. The entire album is filled with the writing skills and musicianship that we have all come to love from a one Mr. Neal Morse.

The idea behind this solo effort was to create as live of a studio performance as possible. This was done by recording the vocals, piano and drums (played by none other than NDV) live from the same room. It allows for Neal and Nick to play off each other, as done superbly in "The Wind and the Rain." The listener almost feels like they could be in the room watching these two jam.

As expected, this album also hosts songs from Neal's pre-Spock's Beard life. The most stirring example, and I think the highlight of the album, is "I am Your Father," which Neal recorded for this album with old bandmates from the 80s. This song is quite possibly one of the best NM songs out there. This should be the reason to get this album!

Overall, there are 13 really good songs here. They aren't all happy songs, but they are all very emotional. You can tell how much these songs mean to Neal. And that just makes the whole album fun. It's a good easy listen. It's easy to get into. And it's perfectly safe for any family car trip. And until we hear from Neal Morse again, this album will stay high in my CD rotation.

fine and definitely not prog.......2002-08-15

Fans of Spock's Beard rushing to buy this album may be slightly disappointed that this album lacks the musical noodling that marks them out as prog rock leaders, the rest of us will simply be relieved. This is an album of solid songs well sung. It has the rough, live feel that Morse was clearly looking for - particularly the drumming and the songs benfit from that. Some of the album is a bit aor and the quality dips by the end where some of the songs are a bit too long but overall an enjoyable album.

Average customer rating:

Transatlantic Demos
Neal Morse
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000095WO2

Tracks:

Hanging In The Balance
Working On Mystery Train (On A Bus)
We All Need Some Light
Dance With The Devil
Working On Piano Solo In 'All Of The Above'
Bridge Across Forever
Full Moon Rising

Album Description

At the suggestion of Mike Portnoy, Neal has put together a disc of demos and a few clips from his hand held cassette recorder from as far back as 1992 and up into to 2000. A fascinating look inside the mind of the man who has been the driving force behind the best prog of the last 10 years, this release is a must have for all Transatlantic fans. 77 tracks. Radiant. 2003.

Music Info:

Music Info

music info

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