The Seraphic Clockwork opinions ?

[The Fiddler]

It hasn't clicked for me, and I don't suspect it will. In many ways, it feels like the last Redemption release; all the elements I enjoyed from previous works are present, yet the songs fail to grab me. I think in the case of both bands, the music feels sterile. As if they were working off some sort of checklist, where they made it a point to ensure that all the proper ingredients were in the mix. However, something quite necessary, and equally intangible, was left out.

I guess the reluctance for the band to leave their comfort zone (and I agree about your Redemption comment as well) can be a good thing or bad thing, depending on what you are expecting to hear from them. Some fans want some change, others want no part of it.

I was reluctant to buy the CD as I heard nothing new from the samples I heard, but as I hadn't bought a new release in quite some time, I went ahead and bought it knowing it would be a solid, quality release with all the polish the band is known for. Is it essential if you own a few of their earlier works - no. But it is a good add to the collection for fans of the band.

I'm sure people hearing the band for the first time on the new disc will be quite impressed and anxious to check out the back catalog, probably looking to hear more of the same and nothing too dramatically different. That's usually my attitude when I discover a new, "old" band that has slipped underneath my radar for several years.

 

[MysticX9]

Count me out as one who doesn't like it. I honestly think this is the greatest release of all time. I will admit that I am a very long-time fan and in fact have considered VP my favorite band probably since FOG. However, being such a big fan has also brought huge expectations with each release since the first I heard (TGT.) They have yet again exceeded my expectations. They have incorporated the choir vocals and symphony more cleverly into the songs. The guitar work is the best Stephan has ever done and I can say the same for Andy's vocals. The songs are extensively layered with intricacies and the over-all sound is huge and majestic. I could type adjectives forever about the release, but I suppose I have made my point. There won't be anything that will come out in the near future that will challenge this in my ears. If i does, it is going to be a real whopper.....

This. I've listened to it a good number of times now and there's not a bad song on it IMO. Just wish I could see 'em perform it live in the near future...

 

[Bryant]

I guess the reluctance for the band to leave their comfort zone (and I agree about your Redemption comment as well) can be a good thing or bad thing, depending on what you are expecting to hear from them. Some fans want some change, others want no part of it.

That is a very true statement. I don't want ANY band to release the same album over and over again, but since VP has always really "hit the right note" with me, I don't want them straying too far from what turned me into a fan in the first place. Having said that, I think they have progressed as a band quite a bit over the years.

Bryant