Sound: I've always loved Vai's sound, especially on Real Illusions, but this albun doesn't sound as full as his other stuff. He uses a lot of electronic and world music influences but I don't think he does the latter as well on this album as on Alive In An Ultra World and the former seems to take away from the warmth and depth, which is something that made Fire Garden great. It just sounded cold and thin. // 7
Lyrics and Singing: Other than the Silent Within, I think the vocal songs on this album took away from what could have been a pretty good album. Most of them seem like filler to me and just lack that Vai magic. Silent Within is probably my favorite on the album though, and nearly makes up for it. Overall, though, I think the album would have been better without vocals. // 5
Impression: In my opinion the best parts were Oooo (the great modulations and cool sound), Lucky Charms (after the chipmunks chill out), Jibboom (maybe the best part of the album, particulary the solo) and definately the Silent Within (very cool aura and the solo takes the album somewhere magical). I honestly think that this was his weakest album. I'm not gonna use worst hear because that word shouldn't ever pertain to Vai, but this album was a little disappointing. I wouldn't buy it if it were stolen. // 7
