Honestly, i love the album. It's like if Alice in Wonderland was written by A7x. It's a journey to listen to it in its entirety in one sitting. Just so artistically beautiful.
Im in the perfect place musically right now for this album to drop. im way into 'outside the box' stuff at the moment and this album had me hooked from beginning to end. enjoyed it so much more than I thought I would, very very solid album
Ive listened to it 3 times now. Its creative, wildly ambitious, and reading more into the lyrics really helps to appreciate it more. The exploration of life, death, and even the afterlife is brilliantly realized. 9/10
I personally think this album is an absolute masterpiece. The versatility of A7X is genius. The majesty of the track "cosmic" is damn near tear jerking. The GOD trilogy is an amazing ride. I hope they don't wait so long to put the next album out. Infinity stars for me
Near tear jerking? I was crying when I picked my dad up for lunch yesterday He asked whats wrong & I had to explain that I was crying from the sheer excellence of the music lol
Being a long time fan of the band, this album makes me feel very proud of them for what they have achieved as musicians. Its just great music! It doesn't matter whether its "metal" or not. You rarely find bands of their calibre who choose to make such inspiring music. I hope many metal bands today can see this album and take inspiration from this. Stop putting yourself in a box! Is it a weird listen? Sure Will it challenge you as a listener? 100% Shouldn't all great art do that? Life is but a dream
1000% agree. Thats exactly what I ve been saying. People are so pampered nowadays especially when it comes to Art. Art should challenge you and open your mind. And this is what these guys did again. FoREVer a fan. Jimmy would be so proud of them.
@@kentuckychainsaw2626 not scared “OF” an album. During this experience there are a lot of different emotions that surface, and fear or “uncomfortability” are definitely present for me.
100% same page here. I'm struggling to think of an album anytime recently that I kept listening to from beginning to end so many times and want to share as much I do this one. I'm a huge Dream Theater fan and am always listening to something from them, and Metropolis 2000 is probably the closest one that was on repeat as much. Months ago I simply skipped around and from the thrashing beginning to some of the other weird starts to songs, I kind of just wrote it off without really listening to any of the songs in full. Cosmic popped up on UA-cam seemingly randomly just a few weeks ago, so I decided to listen to the whole song and I was blown away and compelled to listen to the rest of the album in its entirety. I'm still blown away and keep coming back to it. Wonderful job A7X!
Never listened to Sevenfold in my life, just went through the whole album. I think it's bloody brilliant, will definitely be giving their discography a listen
Words of information: Sounding the Seventh Trumpet and Waking the Fallen are albums of 80% metalcore songs, with a few tracks of curveballs each. If you're hoping for this album's diversity, it's closely present on their albums City of Evil, Avenged Sevenfold, Diamonds in the Rough, and Nightmare. A7X's energy is highest on them. On Hail to the King, not either much. The Stage has similar composition styles to this album at points, but it isn't as diverse in scope. Black Reign is an awesome EP of their four Call of Duty songs. Great listening, fam!!! 💀🦇💙
IT IS SUCH A G(O)(D) TIER ALBUM! Some of the best genre mixing I've ever seen, and magnificently innovative songwriting. Might be my favourite album by them ever.
Love what you did there 😂❤ Also I couldn't agree more, It's something within the sound itself and mixing that just instantly reached to me. I already Love it as much as The Stage if not more ❤
@@Kraljii The Stage is easily in my top 3 A7X albums, and I'd place it at the same level as the stage as well! I think both of them are so sonically different that I can't place one above the other, but they're both absolute gems :)
I just got chills at you mentioning “In the Court of the Crimson King”. I was just rereading one of the Dark Tower books and learning that that album inspired Stephen King. And yes, this album is a masterpiece. Got to work at 3am and listened to it about 3 times in a row as I worked. The day flew by.
I just finished the Dark Tower series the other day and I still haven't listened to In the Court of the Crimson King yet. I've really fot to get on that.
@@kirkwahmmett1666 Do it mate. THE most legendary prog album of all time. Practically all prog that's come out after the 60s pays homage to King Crimson's masterpiece, deservedly so.
Honestly mesmerized by the album as a whole. For me it feels like conversations inside your head, sometimes a different thought comes through and changes the whole process of your imagination... Sometimes is really fast, sometimes emotional, sometimes you don't even understand what is going on but you simply feel like it all makes sense. In a world when everything has to be in an exact way or people won't even care about it, this is literally a "musicians" album. You might be the greatest metal guitarist and always play chuggy riffs and breakdowns but sometimes you just want to write a piano piece. "Feelings" usually don't make sense and they express themselves in multiple genres of music at a time. Love it
This album is a masterpiece. Probably my new favorite album (and I LOVE every era of A7X). These guys are some of the most talented musicians and artists on earth, and they are incapable of writing bad music. And shout out to MY BOY Wes Lang for the beautifully ominous album art. I got a Hawaiian shirt with a bunch of the album art on it. GOING TO SEE THEM LIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME NEXT WEEK! I agree with everything you said. Especially with how all these contrasting musical styles have this disturbing undertone of its heavy themes that just makes it all work as a compete package and you have to listen to it as a complete work of art. Not just cherry pick “good songs” from it.
I love this album so much, they are a few years older than me but I definitely feel like the band has grown up as I've grown up. Looking back through all the music they've released over the years feels like looking through an old photo album, each album tied to its own place and time.
Each track is its OWN canvass of art synergizing off of Wes Langs’ art work. Absolutely a RARE masterpiece work of art in this modern age. This is a deep soul searching vibe that is absent these days. Much props to these not just rock stars but REAL ARTISTS!!
This album is an absolute masterpiece and a wonderful breath of fresh air in the era of musical staleness we've been in for what feels like so long. It's absolutely moving, emotional, satisfying, engaging, and inspirational!
Peep king gizzard and the lizard Wizard if you haven’t already 👀 every album is a completely different genre than the last and it’s great stuff 🔥 from metal to synth pop, prog rock to jazz, you name it! Their live shows are insane too 👌🏻
This is what it feels to exists it pulls you back and transports you somewhere else, the experience is unique, scary, emotional, exciting, and it’s been a while since I haven’t been pushed by music to dive deeper into my emotions to understand the art, loved it!!
Massive A7X fan. At first, I was like “damn they finally let the music industry steal their soul and sold out”. Listened to the whole album…what a mindblowing journey! Much much better than I expected and super unique! For a band to switch things up so significantly and it still work out…and create a mindblowing masterpiece…that is truly amazing! So many influences that shine through on this album…yet it still sounds highly original and fun to listen to…even striking up emotions and making me smile at parts that are insanely cool. Definitely worth listening to the entire thing on repeat!
I love it. It's finally given me something to look forward to over the past couple months. Listening to it this morning took me through a lot of emotions. They did an incredible job mixing it and I hope all of their older fans can appreciate it and bring in a lot of new (younger) fans as well.
I'm so happy to hear your positive regard for the album, from the ratings of each individual songs it sounded really good, I'm so hyped to go over it and experience the album
I finally listened to the whole album, and as an enthusiast of Progressive Metal, Avant-Garde Metal and a few other things thought out of the box, this album is absolutely a masterpiece, one of the most complete I've ever listened, an album rich in musicality, is dense, emotional, fun, mesmerizing, perfect pacing and flow, simply incredible! I've always been a fan of the band, but I missed something less formulaic, more intricate and experimental, just like Life Is But a Dream... I can't wait for the band's next project, a band that has evolved absurdly on each project, and has brilliant musicians, all in their prime.
I love how they drew influences from bands completely out of the metal genre, and didnt try to stay in the barriers of a single genre or sound. They just did whatever they want and its great.
I love mr bungle, maudlin of the well, soad, weird jazz stuff and all that. Ive been in a prog rock mood recently, saw the title of this video and decided to give the album a listen and I was floored by the depths and complexities ax7 decided to venture into and was very refreshing from what id consider an older band. I hope more bands see this experimentation,see they can break their bounds and play outside the box.
Saw the thumbnail and decided to ear the entire thing. Don’t regret a bit, and after watching the video I completely agree with you, Bradley. Definitely got the Sinatra and Choupan vibes while listening to it…!
the thing that did it for me is how natural and raw the mix is. you can actually hear the slight out of time moments in brooks’ drumming, the string noise on the acoustic parts, etc. it sounds so refreshing after having all the cookie cutter style mixing where its just so crisp and perfect.
I love the commentary aspect to you. Just talking about a band you love, which is also a band I very much love. It's an interesting change of pace for A7X, especially from their earlier sounds, which many of us may know them for! Cheers.
This is the natural extension of their Mr Bungle fandom. Anyone who can drop a legit Bungle cover like they did has the chops and interest to do this kind thing. I'd call it something closer to fusion (in the same way that like, Primus is fusion,) and not just Prog. People that dislike this were expecting the same thing over and over again and are mad they didn't get the repeat. Fans of Bungle's first album hated their 2nd album too, for very similar reasons. A+, no notes, they hit it perfectly and your review nails it.
I adore the album and am so happy that my favorite band released such a creative tour de force that shows off their incredible abilities in orchestration and maturity and skill as musicians. It’s no wonder that they are all so proud of it. It’s a wonderful musical work.
havent been listening to metal for all that long, 2 or so years now, but this is the first new release since ive started that really blew me away. the versatility and talent on show here was incredible. very exited about the future of A7X now.
I love avenged sevenfold. I don't really get this album, and maybe i need to give it another listen to better understand it. But I'm glad that there are people who love this album, because i would hate to think it was mediocre.
I'm really trying to get into this álbum too... I got great headphones now, and I'll give it 2 more try. I've listened 2 times already but I cant get it... perhaps it will grow on me as time goes by
@@jfwarcraft-3songs i found super cheesey and cringey.., I found the electric funk stuff for a bit weird and my ears found it a bit off-putting But other than that i enjoyed it as a whole sold album but definitely not the best by far city of Evil the stage and nightmare in my opinion are more enjoyable for me musicality and lyrically
If you like it, cool. I certainly didn't. Most of the praise I'm hearing even in this vid is "it's the most NOT A7X album and I love it for that" 🤔hmmm. It's like putting money in a vending machine, pressing Pepsi and a Ginger Ale drops out. You're probably gonna drink it anyway, but you don't have to be happy about it 😅. Hard pass for me on this one
@@gokuwufei99 the only parts I didn't like about it was the electro funk cringe personally I don't like that type of music other than this I enjoyed it as a whole is more positives and negatives but I don't think I'll be listening to it much on repeat like the stage nightmare and city of Evil must have played them album 6+ times never gets old
This album is very fun, it's great. Avenged Sevenfold were never my cup of tea, but their everything-everywhere-all-at-once-metal really does it for me. When band is having fun we're having fun
Never been a fan of Avenged sevenfold, but this album is some of the best I've ever heard💪 Opeth, death, BTBM, Cynic, DT and d.tranquility...... Its up there❤
I had been waiting for the album for so long, and let me tell you I was so joyfully surprised that it came out on my birthday. I've been a fan for a decade or so and had the privilege of seeing them live back in 2013. I'm really hopeful to seeing them play this live. Overall, I freaking loved every single bit of this album. It was damn worth the wait.
If you like other genres of music besides metal, this album is for you. If not and you’re just looking for that classic A7X sound, I’m not surprised if you don’t like it. I personally consider myself a metal head but as someone who regularly listens to almost every other genre especially the clearly recognizable influences of other genres/influences on this album, this album was a surprisingly refreshing masterpiece. Definitely a top 3 A7X album for me
I didn’t expect myself to love this album because it wasn’t what I was hoping for from A7X but I’ve had it on repeat. It’s a fantastic album and best experienced from start to finish.
I loved the album! It is so inspiring and mindful. It really gave me the chills. I know it’s not what many fans were expecting, but I loved it. A7X has never failed to surprise. It’s amazing how they just make awesome music and no pushing themselves into some genre or fan expectation boundaries.. Just amazing!
My favorite album was Science Fiction by Brand New. Hearing it the first time changed my life, and I haven't felt anything like that before, and hadn't felt anything like that since... until this morning hearing this album. These guys are my favorite band, and I'm so here for this new direction. Gotta give my favorite track to G or Mattel. The only criticism I have is that "Now I know this might sound crazy, but I've smelled the plastic daisies" has been stuck in my head since I heard it 😂
It's honestly one of the best albums I've heard in a long time. It's reignited my love for front to back album listening and it's just....it's such a journey
i'm extremely fond of this album, on the first listen even. a project like this is nothing i would ever expect of a band of their caliber or age, so it's extremely refreshing. it's got a WILD soundscape so it was really fun to listen, it feels like their take on a lot of styles and i'm here for it
So nice to hear someone on UA-cam who knows about music and is also a long term fan that appreciates this album for the masterpiece it is! All those that don’t like it I feel really need to widen their music taste as it’s beyond me how someone can’t be impressed by how good it’s really is!
Hey man, you're cool, love you...all your videos. I've never been a fan of these guys, because I'm so old, but when I heard this album, I was pretty blown, blown, blown away! Love it. I always agree with you bro.
Thank you for mentioning how warm and organic this album sounds. With so many big metal / rock bands going the overproduction route with their guitars and drums, this was a refreshing album to hear from a band this big. Also, you hit the nail on the head about it being "genuine" prog. So many bands today think prog = 8 string guitars, polyrhythmic riffs and odd time signatures without really doing anything truly "progressive" in their music. The ones who do tend to remain underground (see Diablo Swing Orchestra and UneXpect). So it was more than a pleasant suprise to listen to this album and hear all these twists and turns.
The Stage is one of the very few metal albums out there that has good dynamic range and actually sounds good, would you say this compares in audio production?
I'm only a minute and a half into your video. I' really excited to listen to this album. Your take so far reminds me of when I heard the newest Coheed album. Great song writing, great riffs, great lyrics, great solos, but also, not at all what people might expect. I mean there are two straight up pop songs on that album that might have been written by The Weekend. Best album they have ever done. Love your integrity on this, and balls out honesty so far. FYI the only time I've felt like this recently apart from this album is Rosalia's second album. I'm a flamenco fan and her first album was great lofi flamenco. Then the second album dropped and it was simultaneously an amazing pop album, loads of weird tracks, the history of spanish music, and an opera. Can't wait
Honestly not a huge Avenged fan, but I saw the title of your video, didn't watch your video yet, just saw the title, and listened to the album on the way to work. Wow! This is what I was missing for years! Incredible album which is beautiful in its entirety. Thanks for getting me into this great piece of art.
This album is something. Made it through twice now and I'm having a hard time putting words to it. There is a lot to digest here. Every song is sooo different and it really demands your attention. Right now the GOD suite is really standing out to me. Also is that Syn playing the piano? Damn he is good. I think this album is going to turn off about 80% of avenged fan base but the other 20% are going to regard this album as the greatest album of all time. I think i'm going to be part of the 20%, but i'm honestly not sure yet.
i was totally listening to it this morning, and wondering what your take was, 'cause you're a fan. thanks for the vid! i think it's a damn good album, as well, and i have to listen to it a lot more.
I agree Bradley, listened to the album because of this video and absolutely love it. You can tell A7x stepped out of their comfort zone a little bit but they nailed it. Also I agree Sleep Token should take notes from things like this
The bluesy section on Easier and the solo over it are so friggin catchy. All of Cosmic is great. Definitely different from other stuff by them but also not. I really hope they release more tracks like they did on the stage. Just can’t get enough
I'll buy the album on your recommendation, first time seeing your channel too. You mentioned a ton of my own loves, prog, mr bungle, Court of the crimson king... the only thing i didn't hear you touch on is Porcupine Tree/ Steven Wilson (my personal fave) I'm 53 and came to love music in the Duran Duran/ hair metal 80s, and i love music that covers many genres in the same album... thanks! It sounds right up my alley.
A7X has been in my top 2 being #1/#2 depending for the last 13ish years since I discovered them. This album is definitely unique not only in their discography, but overall, and I was nervous originally through the solos and just everything coming out about it, but man it's a whirlwind and truly an amazing piece of art.
Agree so much! Loved it since the first listen, it was sooooo fun to go through this album-journey when you don’t know what not even every other track will bring you but every other minute of every song! I laughed at joy on many tracks and listen to the LIBAD since then every day I just like strange albums and experiments and A7x delivered them great!
Phenomenal! Thank you, for this recommendation. I might have overlooked this album, because I'm not very into Avanged Sevenfold. They never got me - until now. Listened it with focus from start to finish, with ease - can't remember, when this happened the last time. No boring second and constantly surprising with the unexpected. I'm sure I can listen to this album again and again for serveral times and will still discover new aspects, nuances and references any time. Really great mix, also... Btw: I think, you should make some "content for yourself" more often. I really like your calm and binding appearance in this video. It suits you very well.
I originally heard Nobody and We Love You as singles and was a bit confused, like you said. But then when I sat down to listen to the album from start to finish today, it was insane. I was immediately invested in a way that I haven't been for a long time. I usually need 2-3 listens of a new album to get invested - but this one got me straight away! It's amazing.
JUST finished listening to the whole album. It's an easy 10. These guys have the insane ability to make things that shouldn't work, work. The most brilliant album start to back, it's not a rock album, its not a metal album, this is truly its own thing, pulling from influences that are miles apart, and putting their own creative input aswell. it can be heavy, it can be funky, it can be happy, it can be eerie. Every band member absolutely going to town on their instruments. Syn especially, probably his best performance ever. But don't let that take away from Christ, Zacky, Matt, with a really nice return to form imo, and Brooks. Excellent, excellent album. This is the "Ok Computer" of metal. Genius.
It was totally mind-blowing, definitely not what old-school fans are used to but better a band evolves and changes rather than just do the same thing over and over.
I was about to talk about the same stuff but since you've done it before me, I am just here to support this message and give a huge thumbs up. This album made me fall in love with ORGANIC music again. I've realized that the thing that drove me away from listening to new music is the overproduced instruments, machine-perfect quality of arrangements, and lack of soul. This album has a solid soul! I've never felt like this for a very, very long time.
I am somewhere on the middle on this album honestly, some songs feel like they work towards the whole and can also stand on their own but the other half of the album even after a few listen throughs just aren't clicking with me. Weirdly enough, we love you is starting to grow on me and I felt so confused on that first listen through of that stylistic flurry of a song. Cosmic, Mattel and Nobody are the standouts for me as of now.
I've never been a huge AV7X fan but after hearing those singles they released I knew I had to at least check it out. After listening to it I gotta say that I love it and I think this band has broken new ground. They've totally earned my respect for releasing something this balsey.
Holy shit!! I don’t know how it’s so possible with such a glowing review, but I believe you’ve undersold it! I don’t know how you could’ve said it any better, I am just so happy you pointed me in this direction!! 🙏🔥🎶
Honestly, i love the album. It's like if Alice in Wonderland was written by A7x. It's a journey to listen to it in its entirety in one sitting. Just so artistically beautiful.
I assume "In Wonderland" is either a typo or some inside joke I'm entirely unaware of
@@sweetdannyandlisa6537 no I think that's what he meant. Alice in wonderland meets Avenged Sevenfold is honestly a perfect way to describe this album
Dont insult Alice in Wonderland.
Im in the perfect place musically right now for this album to drop. im way into 'outside the box' stuff at the moment and this album had me hooked from beginning to end. enjoyed it so much more than I thought I would, very very solid album
and dishonestly?
A7X decided on the last two albums that they don’t need new fans, they’re going to do what they want, and I’m here for it. 9/10
And that’s why they gained new fans like me. This album is epic
Making different music means they want new fans
Goddamn right. I will defend this band until I hear that they're all Trump supporters or that they're like sexual predators or something like that.
They are surely gaining fans from the prog community, but losing mainstream ones
@@14AspenDrivemaking different music means they wanna make different music
They weren't lying when they say The Rev would've love this album!
As a long time A7X fan I can say this record is absolutely beautiful. 👏👏
Totally he was all in the jazzy crazy shit...listen to pinkly smooth he sang there
@@mrbungle3310 I have. It's amazingly crazy stuff 😎
As someone who listens to a lot different genres, this album feels very natural to me. Jumps between genres effortlessly and naturally.
Yes. I love when metal mix with orchestra. It make the song feel big and massive, yet sweet.
Maybe you're part of the message
I don’t like all the musical genres but this album is something different, great, I just love it
Same here m8
Ive listened to it 3 times now. Its creative, wildly ambitious, and reading more into the lyrics really helps to appreciate it more. The exploration of life, death, and even the afterlife is brilliantly realized. 9/10
Its a 9 for me too and I’m not crazy into A7x but really liked the Stage and the self titled album.
9/10 too
4/10
15/10
Cosmic feels like a movie of its own. Absolutely gorgeous album, what a pleasure to listen to.
"there you'll find me"
Woke up at 4 am yesterday to see the album had dropped and immediately listened it through. I absolutely bawled my eyes out during cosmic.
Cosmic is Like the Paranoid Android of metal music 😉
Might be my favorite on the record
This album felt like it took its listeners on a journey. The sequence of (Ordinary) and (Death) is so damn good. This album was phenomenal.
I heard it live and it was amazing
That's what I'm saying!!!!!! That transition is insane!!!
I personally think this album is an absolute masterpiece. The versatility of A7X is genius. The majesty of the track "cosmic" is damn near tear jerking. The GOD trilogy is an amazing ride. I hope they don't wait so long to put the next album out. Infinity stars for me
Near tear jerking? I was crying when I picked my dad up for lunch yesterday
He asked whats wrong & I had to explain that I was crying from the sheer excellence of the music lol
Being a long time fan of the band, this album makes me feel very proud of them for what they have achieved as musicians. Its just great music! It doesn't matter whether its "metal" or not. You rarely find bands of their calibre who choose to make such inspiring music.
I hope many metal bands today can see this album and take inspiration from this.
Stop putting yourself in a box!
Is it a weird listen? Sure
Will it challenge you as a listener? 100%
Shouldn't all great art do that?
Life is but a dream
1000% agree. Thats exactly what I ve been saying. People are so pampered nowadays especially when it comes to Art. Art should challenge you and open your mind. And this is what these guys did again. FoREVer a fan. Jimmy would be so proud of them.
You nailed it 👏👏👏🙌🙌🙌
@@marbella135 Jimmy is smiling right now
Its definently more metal than Put me to Sleep Token
@@mirkecWii that's just a bad take
There’s definitely a sense of dread with this record. I felt uneasy, almost scared at moments. Its a magnificent horror ride. Absolutely blown away.
Its such a great existential trip. Its slightly hopeful with deep shades of melancholy and dread. Love it.
You felt scared of an album at times? What?
@@kentuckychainsaw2626 not scared “OF” an album. During this experience there are a lot of different emotions that surface, and fear or “uncomfortability” are definitely present for me.
feel the same way. the arrangement on death was very unsettling, especially towards the end
@@kentuckychainsaw2626 you can feel scared while listening to an album. That can happen
100% same page here. I'm struggling to think of an album anytime recently that I kept listening to from beginning to end so many times and want to share as much I do this one. I'm a huge Dream Theater fan and am always listening to something from them, and Metropolis 2000 is probably the closest one that was on repeat as much. Months ago I simply skipped around and from the thrashing beginning to some of the other weird starts to songs, I kind of just wrote it off without really listening to any of the songs in full. Cosmic popped up on UA-cam seemingly randomly just a few weeks ago, so I decided to listen to the whole song and I was blown away and compelled to listen to the rest of the album in its entirety. I'm still blown away and keep coming back to it. Wonderful job A7X!
It’s by far, my favorite release of theirs, and in my top 10 of the past decade overall.
Never listened to Sevenfold in my life, just went through the whole album. I think it's bloody brilliant, will definitely be giving their discography a listen
Got too bro
Words of information:
Sounding the Seventh Trumpet and Waking the Fallen are albums of 80% metalcore songs, with a few tracks of curveballs each. If you're hoping for this album's diversity, it's closely present on their albums City of Evil, Avenged Sevenfold, Diamonds in the Rough, and Nightmare. A7X's energy is highest on them. On Hail to the King, not either much. The Stage has similar composition styles to this album at points, but it isn't as diverse in scope. Black Reign is an awesome EP of their four Call of Duty songs.
Great listening, fam!!! 💀🦇💙
The self titled album & nightmare are the next best. Start there.
IT IS SUCH A G(O)(D) TIER ALBUM!
Some of the best genre mixing I've ever seen, and magnificently innovative songwriting. Might be my favourite album by them ever.
Love what you did there 😂❤
Also I couldn't agree more, It's something within the sound itself and mixing that just instantly reached to me. I already Love it as much as The Stage if not more ❤
@@Kraljii Ye. Such a G(O)(D) tier joke😂😂😂
@@Kraljii The Stage is easily in my top 3 A7X albums, and I'd place it at the same level as the stage as well! I think both of them are so sonically different that I can't place one above the other, but they're both absolute gems :)
@@wagglywizard6700 LIBAD felt similar to the stage but a step up imo
It’s only been a day and there’re already puns
I just got chills at you mentioning “In the Court of the Crimson King”. I was just rereading one of the Dark Tower books and learning that that album inspired Stephen King. And yes, this album is a masterpiece. Got to work at 3am and listened to it about 3 times in a row as I worked. The day flew by.
I just finished the Dark Tower series the other day and I still haven't listened to In the Court of the Crimson King yet. I've really fot to get on that.
@@kirkwahmmett1666 Do it mate. THE most legendary prog album of all time. Practically all prog that's come out after the 60s pays homage to King Crimson's masterpiece, deservedly so.
Honestly mesmerized by the album as a whole. For me it feels like conversations inside your head, sometimes a different thought comes through and changes the whole process of your imagination... Sometimes is really fast, sometimes emotional, sometimes you don't even understand what is going on but you simply feel like it all makes sense. In a world when everything has to be in an exact way or people won't even care about it, this is literally a "musicians" album. You might be the greatest metal guitarist and always play chuggy riffs and breakdowns but sometimes you just want to write a piano piece. "Feelings" usually don't make sense and they express themselves in multiple genres of music at a time. Love it
This album is a masterpiece. Probably my new favorite album (and I LOVE every era of A7X). These guys are some of the most talented musicians and artists on earth, and they are incapable of writing bad music. And shout out to MY BOY Wes Lang for the beautifully ominous album art. I got a Hawaiian shirt with a bunch of the album art on it. GOING TO SEE THEM LIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME NEXT WEEK!
I agree with everything you said. Especially with how all these contrasting musical styles have this disturbing undertone of its heavy themes that just makes it all work as a compete package and you have to listen to it as a complete work of art. Not just cherry pick “good songs” from it.
Where did you get the shirt from that sounds cool
Enjoy your first show brother!
@@deadmetal8692 YAY!!!!
Reading these comments are a breath of fresh air after reading the brain rot on the Album of the year website.
@@thegoatfromiowa8948 uh oh I’ll go check that out
I LOVE LIBAD. been a fan since 2007. They made me a Metalhead at 7 years old. This album means the world to me. 7 Years Worth the Wait
Same here.
I love this album so much, they are a few years older than me but I definitely feel like the band has grown up as I've grown up.
Looking back through all the music they've released over the years feels like looking through an old photo album, each album tied to its own place and time.
Each track is its OWN canvass of art synergizing off of Wes Langs’ art work. Absolutely a RARE masterpiece work of art in this modern age. This is a deep soul searching vibe that is absent these days. Much props to these not just rock stars but REAL ARTISTS!!
This album is an absolute masterpiece and a wonderful breath of fresh air in the era of musical staleness we've been in for what feels like so long. It's absolutely moving, emotional, satisfying, engaging, and inspirational!
I haven’t ever heard an album that “moved” me the way LIBAD did. Great stuff.
@MEME Supreme Hybrid Theory/Meteora?
Peep king gizzard and the lizard Wizard if you haven’t already 👀 every album is a completely different genre than the last and it’s great stuff 🔥 from metal to synth pop, prog rock to jazz, you name it! Their live shows are insane too 👌🏻
This is what it feels to exists it pulls you back and transports you somewhere else, the experience is unique, scary, emotional, exciting, and it’s been a while since I haven’t been pushed by music to dive deeper into my emotions to understand the art, loved it!!
Also, great video mate!
Massive A7X fan. At first, I was like “damn they finally let the music industry steal their soul and sold out”.
Listened to the whole album…what a mindblowing journey! Much much better than I expected and super unique! For a band to switch things up so significantly and it still work out…and create a mindblowing masterpiece…that is truly amazing!
So many influences that shine through on this album…yet it still sounds highly original and fun to listen to…even striking up emotions and making me smile at parts that are insanely cool.
Definitely worth listening to the entire thing on repeat!
Man i love the last song, Synyster plays the piano there like a pro of the pros
This is 100% a love or hate album. Personally I think it's their best.
Yes they did....GENIUS ALBUM !!!! Glorious ! My favorites are Mattel and Cosmic
I love it. It's finally given me something to look forward to over the past couple months. Listening to it this morning took me through a lot of emotions. They did an incredible job mixing it and I hope all of their older fans can appreciate it and bring in a lot of new (younger) fans as well.
I'm so happy to hear your positive regard for the album, from the ratings of each individual songs it sounded really good, I'm so hyped to go over it and experience the album
I finally listened to the whole album, and as an enthusiast of Progressive Metal, Avant-Garde Metal and a few other things thought out of the box, this album is absolutely a masterpiece, one of the most complete I've ever listened, an album rich in musicality, is dense, emotional, fun, mesmerizing, perfect pacing and flow, simply incredible! I've always been a fan of the band, but I missed something less formulaic, more intricate and experimental, just like Life Is But a Dream... I can't wait for the band's next project, a band that has evolved absurdly on each project, and has brilliant musicians, all in their prime.
Cosmic is an absolute masterpiece
You're not alone. This is one of their best albums to date👍😉
I dont like it as much as others but it is definitely one of thier objectively best albums
I would love to see Bradley make more videos like this; calm and just full of passion describing his favorite albums. I’d watch each one ❤
I love how they drew influences from bands completely out of the metal genre, and didnt try to stay in the barriers of a single genre or sound. They just did whatever they want and its great.
I love mr bungle, maudlin of the well, soad, weird jazz stuff and all that. Ive been in a prog rock mood recently, saw the title of this video and decided to give the album a listen and I was floored by the depths and complexities ax7 decided to venture into and was very refreshing from what id consider an older band. I hope more bands see this experimentation,see they can break their bounds and play outside the box.
Love seeing musicians getting excited about new music
Saw the thumbnail and decided to ear the entire thing. Don’t regret a bit, and after watching the video I completely agree with you, Bradley. Definitely got the Sinatra and Choupan vibes while listening to it…!
the thing that did it for me is how natural and raw the mix is. you can actually hear the slight out of time moments in brooks’ drumming, the string noise on the acoustic parts, etc. it sounds so refreshing after having all the cookie cutter style mixing where its just so crisp and perfect.
I love the commentary aspect to you. Just talking about a band you love, which is also a band I very much love. It's an interesting change of pace for A7X, especially from their earlier sounds, which many of us may know them for! Cheers.
One fan right here brother! I love it, favourite songs after a couple of listens is probably life is but a dream, G, ordinary and mattel
This is the natural extension of their Mr Bungle fandom. Anyone who can drop a legit Bungle cover like they did has the chops and interest to do this kind thing. I'd call it something closer to fusion (in the same way that like, Primus is fusion,) and not just Prog.
People that dislike this were expecting the same thing over and over again and are mad they didn't get the repeat. Fans of Bungle's first album hated their 2nd album too, for very similar reasons.
A+, no notes, they hit it perfectly and your review nails it.
Your excitement on this is fn awesome!!
I adore the album and am so happy that my favorite band released such a creative tour de force that shows off their incredible abilities in orchestration and maturity and skill as musicians. It’s no wonder that they are all so proud of it. It’s a wonderful musical work.
They really channeled their inner Mr.Bungle (I love Mr.Bungle)
im a fan thank you for this video!!!
I COMPLETELY LOVED EVERY SINGLE ONE
You should make more videos like this ! Happy Bradley is the best Bradley. Love from the US
Huge a7x fan here. Not sure why they get so much heat. Never scared to make different music which most metal bands rarely ever do
Such a nice commentary Bradley! This album is indeed a masterpiece!! It is such a unique experience.
This is the most spot on review. Great job!
havent been listening to metal for all that long, 2 or so years now, but this is the first new release since ive started that really blew me away. the versatility and talent on show here was incredible. very exited about the future of A7X now.
I love avenged sevenfold. I don't really get this album, and maybe i need to give it another listen to better understand it. But I'm glad that there are people who love this album, because i would hate to think it was mediocre.
Listen front to back and just be open to what it throws at you. If you dont like it, dont force it 🤷♂️
I'm really trying to get into this álbum too... I got great headphones now, and I'll give it 2 more try. I've listened 2 times already but I cant get it... perhaps it will grow on me as time goes by
@@jfwarcraft-3songs i found super cheesey and cringey.., I found the electric funk stuff for a bit weird and my ears found it a bit off-putting But other than that i enjoyed it as a whole sold album but definitely not the best by far city of Evil the stage and nightmare in my opinion are more enjoyable for me musicality and lyrically
If you like it, cool. I certainly didn't. Most of the praise I'm hearing even in this vid is "it's the most NOT A7X album and I love it for that" 🤔hmmm. It's like putting money in a vending machine, pressing Pepsi and a Ginger Ale drops out. You're probably gonna drink it anyway, but you don't have to be happy about it 😅. Hard pass for me on this one
@@gokuwufei99 the only parts I didn't like about it was the electro funk cringe personally I don't like that type of music other than this I enjoyed it as a whole is more positives and negatives but I don't think I'll be listening to it much on repeat like the stage nightmare and city of Evil must have played them album 6+ times never gets old
This album is very fun, it's great. Avenged Sevenfold were never my cup of tea, but their everything-everywhere-all-at-once-metal really does it for me. When band is having fun we're having fun
Cool! Thanks for the heads up! As an album and prog (with preference for metal) lover, you have sold this one to me! I'll definitely check it out!.
I’ve loved you and your channel for a bit now and this video made me love you like 20x more
Didn’t scream or run around your room, content is a 1/10 SMH
Never been a fan of Avenged sevenfold, but this album is some of the best I've ever heard💪
Opeth, death, BTBM, Cynic, DT and d.tranquility...... Its up there❤
I've been looking for something new and intriguing. Looking forward to hearing it. Cheers Broseph 🍻
I had been waiting for the album for so long, and let me tell you I was so joyfully surprised that it came out on my birthday. I've been a fan for a decade or so and had the privilege of seeing them live back in 2013. I'm really hopeful to seeing them play this live. Overall, I freaking loved every single bit of this album. It was damn worth the wait.
If you like other genres of music besides metal, this album is for you. If not and you’re just looking for that classic A7X sound, I’m not surprised if you don’t like it. I personally consider myself a metal head but as someone who regularly listens to almost every other genre especially the clearly recognizable influences of other genres/influences on this album, this album was a surprisingly refreshing masterpiece. Definitely a top 3 A7X album for me
I'm so happy for them, you could tell in every interview how they were so excited for it to drop and it certainly paid off.
Really liking is so far! I got into them just a few months ago all from watching your videos.. Thanks for introducing them to me!
I didn’t expect myself to love this album because it wasn’t what I was hoping for from A7X but I’ve had it on repeat. It’s a fantastic album and best experienced from start to finish.
I loved the album! It is so inspiring and mindful. It really gave me the chills. I know it’s not what many fans were expecting, but I loved it. A7X has never failed to surprise. It’s amazing how they just make awesome music and no pushing themselves into some genre or fan expectation boundaries..
Just amazing!
My favorite album was Science Fiction by Brand New. Hearing it the first time changed my life, and I haven't felt anything like that before, and hadn't felt anything like that since... until this morning hearing this album. These guys are my favorite band, and I'm so here for this new direction. Gotta give my favorite track to G or Mattel. The only criticism I have is that "Now I know this might sound crazy, but I've smelled the plastic daisies" has been stuck in my head since I heard it 😂
thanks for the recommend! I’m excited to give it a listen
Este álbum es una pieza maestra...
It's honestly one of the best albums I've heard in a long time. It's reignited my love for front to back album listening and it's just....it's such a journey
This album sounds exactly like something The Rev would write. It's the Pinkly Smooth album we never got. Absolute art.
Bradley, it's nice to see you see down and talk. Not that I don't like your other videos but it's a nice turn of events!
i'm extremely fond of this album, on the first listen even. a project like this is nothing i would ever expect of a band of their caliber or age, so it's extremely refreshing. it's got a WILD soundscape so it was really fun to listen, it feels like their take on a lot of styles and i'm here for it
Blows my mind! I still love city of evil and the stage, but this, this is something to celebrate! They're my favorite band out there
So nice to hear someone on UA-cam who knows about music and is also a long term fan that appreciates this album for the masterpiece it is!
All those that don’t like it I feel really need to widen their music taste as it’s beyond me how someone can’t be impressed by how good it’s really is!
*Brad Taste be like*
I think Anthony Fantano would struggle to widen his music tastes and he hated it.
I didn't listen to them before but after your recommendation they are my favorite band! Thank you I'm big fan!!
Hey man, you're cool, love you...all your videos. I've never been a fan of these guys, because I'm so old, but when I heard this album, I was pretty blown, blown, blown away! Love it. I always agree with you bro.
The band has reached the best level of their career. Progressive metal with classic elements and a solid concept in all the songs on the album.
Thank you for mentioning how warm and organic this album sounds. With so many big metal / rock bands going the overproduction route with their guitars and drums, this was a refreshing album to hear from a band this big. Also, you hit the nail on the head about it being "genuine" prog. So many bands today think prog = 8 string guitars, polyrhythmic riffs and odd time signatures without really doing anything truly "progressive" in their music. The ones who do tend to remain underground (see Diablo Swing Orchestra and UneXpect). So it was more than a pleasant suprise to listen to this album and hear all these twists and turns.
It's not organic in any way, it sounds simply unbalanced and ironically rushed.
The Stage is one of the very few metal albums out there that has good dynamic range and actually sounds good, would you say this compares in audio production?
I'm only a minute and a half into your video. I' really excited to listen to this album. Your take so far reminds me of when I heard the newest Coheed album. Great song writing, great riffs, great lyrics, great solos, but also, not at all what people might expect. I mean there are two straight up pop songs on that album that might have been written by The Weekend. Best album they have ever done. Love your integrity on this, and balls out honesty so far. FYI the only time I've felt like this recently apart from this album is Rosalia's second album. I'm a flamenco fan and her first album was great lofi flamenco. Then the second album dropped and it was simultaneously an amazing pop album, loads of weird tracks, the history of spanish music, and an opera. Can't wait
Honestly not a huge Avenged fan, but I saw the title of your video, didn't watch your video yet, just saw the title, and listened to the album on the way to work. Wow! This is what I was missing for years! Incredible album which is beautiful in its entirety. Thanks for getting me into this great piece of art.
This album is something. Made it through twice now and I'm having a hard time putting words to it. There is a lot to digest here. Every song is sooo different and it really demands your attention. Right now the GOD suite is really standing out to me. Also is that Syn playing the piano? Damn he is good.
I think this album is going to turn off about 80% of avenged fan base but the other 20% are going to regard this album as the greatest album of all time. I think i'm going to be part of the 20%, but i'm honestly not sure yet.
I love Avenged Sevenfold to death, Cosmic made me get so choked up. This whole album I think is easily in my top 5 of all time.
To _death,_ you say?
@@BlaireSnorlax Yes, to (D)eath
I stand by every word you said here - espec about putting me back in an oldschool mood of just experiencing the whole album slowly, take my time
i was totally listening to it this morning, and wondering what your take was, 'cause you're a fan. thanks for the vid! i think it's a damn good album, as well, and i have to listen to it a lot more.
I agree Bradley, listened to the album because of this video and absolutely love it. You can tell A7x stepped out of their comfort zone a little bit but they nailed it. Also I agree Sleep Token should take notes from things like this
The bluesy section on Easier and the solo over it are so friggin catchy. All of Cosmic is great. Definitely different from other stuff by them but also not.
I really hope they release more tracks like they did on the stage. Just can’t get enough
One of my favorite albums in many many years. It's fantastic. I've listened to it no less than 20 times so far.
I'll buy the album on your recommendation, first time seeing your channel too. You mentioned a ton of my own loves, prog, mr bungle, Court of the crimson king... the only thing i didn't hear you touch on is Porcupine Tree/ Steven Wilson (my personal fave)
I'm 53 and came to love music in the Duran Duran/ hair metal 80s, and i love music that covers many genres in the same album... thanks! It sounds right up my alley.
A7X has been in my top 2 being #1/#2 depending for the last 13ish years since I discovered them. This album is definitely unique not only in their discography, but overall, and I was nervous originally through the solos and just everything coming out about it, but man it's a whirlwind and truly an amazing piece of art.
This album gets better with every single listen. It's such a wonderful experience.
Agreed
Agree so much! Loved it since the first listen, it was sooooo fun to go through this album-journey when you don’t know what not even every other track will bring you but every other minute of every song!
I laughed at joy on many tracks and listen to the LIBAD since then every day
I just like strange albums and experiments and A7x delivered them great!
Phenomenal!
Thank you, for this recommendation. I might have overlooked this album, because I'm not very into Avanged Sevenfold. They never got me - until now. Listened it with focus from start to finish, with ease - can't remember, when this happened the last time. No boring second and constantly surprising with the unexpected. I'm sure I can listen to this album again and again for serveral times and will still discover new aspects, nuances and references any time. Really great mix, also...
Btw: I think, you should make some "content for yourself" more often. I really like your calm and binding appearance in this video. It suits you very well.
I originally heard Nobody and We Love You as singles and was a bit confused, like you said.
But then when I sat down to listen to the album from start to finish today, it was insane. I was immediately invested in a way that I haven't been for a long time. I usually need 2-3 listens of a new album to get invested - but this one got me straight away! It's amazing.
I felt excatly the same!
JUST finished listening to the whole album. It's an easy 10. These guys have the insane ability to make things that shouldn't work, work. The most brilliant album start to back, it's not a rock album, its not a metal album, this is truly its own thing, pulling from influences that are miles apart, and putting their own creative input aswell. it can be heavy, it can be funky, it can be happy, it can be eerie. Every band member absolutely going to town on their instruments. Syn especially, probably his best performance ever. But don't let that take away from Christ, Zacky, Matt, with a really nice return to form imo, and Brooks. Excellent, excellent album. This is the "Ok Computer" of metal. Genius.
Masterpiece! Waiting for my vinyl.
Album has many layers and different shades. I think, its concept ,musically, of life - from the birth till death...
You nailed it with the We Love You description. It automatically reminded me of Mr. Bungle and some typical Patton sections.
It was totally mind-blowing, definitely not what old-school fans are used to but better a band evolves and changes rather than just do the same thing over and over.
This is a prog metal pink floyd album. Thats really the best way i describe it.
The thought and effort put in this album is astounding !!! I wish other great bands would do this.
I was about to talk about the same stuff but since you've done it before me, I am just here to support this message and give a huge thumbs up. This album made me fall in love with ORGANIC music again. I've realized that the thing that drove me away from listening to new music is the overproduced instruments, machine-perfect quality of arrangements, and lack of soul. This album has a solid soul! I've never felt like this for a very, very long time.
I am somewhere on the middle on this album honestly, some songs feel like they work towards the whole and can also stand on their own but the other half of the album even after a few listen throughs just aren't clicking with me. Weirdly enough, we love you is starting to grow on me and I felt so confused on that first listen through of that stylistic flurry of a song. Cosmic, Mattel and Nobody are the standouts for me as of now.
I've never been a huge AV7X fan but after hearing those singles they released I knew I had to at least check it out. After listening to it I gotta say that I love it and I think this band has broken new ground. They've totally earned my respect for releasing something this balsey.
Hey, just wanna say, you're the reason I'm an a7x fan now, your what bands sound like video got me on a lot of bands because I liked the sound of them
Holy shit!! I don’t know how it’s so possible with such a glowing review, but I believe you’ve undersold it!
I don’t know how you could’ve said it any better, I am just so happy you pointed me in this direction!! 🙏🔥🎶