The Neal Morse Band - The Great Adventure (Radiant Records/Metal Blade)

Neal Morse (and the band) achieved something truly remarkable with Similitude of a Dream which was released back in 2016.  It was this writer’s choice for a progressive album of the year.  Now two years later, the group delivers a sequel in form of The Great Adventure.

At the moment of this writing I’m still trying to get to the matter of this record, but the excitement is there, and as soon as it’s over I want to press play again.  The same feeling immediately connects both albums, and the search continues.

The Great Adventure is a perfect title even from the musical standpoint; it does feel like it.  Lyrically of course there is a strong story behind that is conceptually worked out and well connected.  The message is very positive and reflecting Morse’s core beliefs. 

The outstanding musicianship guides this record, and allows the players to move in any direction at ease.  There are some great classic influences that come into play; deeply rooted in the 70’s and 80s classic prog or even rock.  But it’s the quality of the songwriting that shines here, as do the individual players.  Also, each member is singing on the album, and the combination of voices really opens up a lot of new possibilities.  Even though it’s Neal Morse’s name on the marquee, it really feels like a band.  And that’s something that is even more visible when seeing the group play live.

The Great Adventure is once again stretched onto two discs, and it’s nearly 100 minutes of music, but it doesn't feel like that at all.  It moves very quickly, and the themes are very melodic and memorable.  Every track here has its own place and function.  There are different vibes and the mood changes throughout the album making it a very exciting listen. 

The more you listen, the more you discover.  It’s a record certainly dedicated to a listener who likes to be challenged.  But the perfection is very obvious.  The Great Adventure is a sequel of epic proportions!

                                                                                                                                                                Mark Kadzielawa