I was a little taken back at first. I now love the growth they have shown. It still is lacking without Patrick( the drums are reminicent of drum machine) but I think it has the collective appeal the band was going for. The solos are great. I dont feel Evergrey was a Slayer type band that built its foundation around only aggresion and chaotic movment. Try to remember Evergrey are very much a prog style power metal in the vein Queensryche or Malmsteen and even Dream Theater. I have grown to really appreacite the new album. Thanks Evergrey for a very excellent new disc.