Ok, tempered by reviews from metal gurus of higher knowledge, I focused HARD on this cd once again Through the 8th or more spin and I was struck with one thought: Bloody Brillance! While I hear the elements of accessiblitly, I can't help but think the band has scored a major coup!
The opening tracks do have, for the serious metal listener, a disturbing element of commercialism, yet further immersion into this suprisingly complex cd seems to unveil a demonically clever scheme. While there is definitely a call to a broader audience in the opening tracks, there is an increasing infusion of darker "Evergrey elements" through out the cd that draws the listener deeper into the more complex world of the band's earlier compositions.
Sell out or sell all is the question. Seems to me Evergrey has quite cleverly crafted a compilation of tunes that will draw in the less educated ear and smartly twist them into adjusting into their darker, more complicated sound. Bitch all you like about pandering to the masses, this cd seems a terribly smart mix of grab your ass tunes then make you pay as you adjust to the original sound.
I think this cd is a key to the gate, drawing in newbies with the "easy" sound and teaching them to like the old sound. If Evergrey can draw in the masses with the lighter stuff, while introducing them to the darker, deeper elements, they'll get 'em to buy the old stuff and will be free to explore more complicated stuff with the assurance of marketability in the future. Damn good job guys! Hope it works!
