More often than not I consider the voice another instrument. I don't particularly care what the lyrical theme is, as long as the music and vocal melodies are well executed and interesting I'm probably going to enjoy it. This is where the inherit flaw of most Christian music comes in, its all about the lyrics and the music is severely lacking.
As with all things there are exceptions, and Neal Morse sure is a huge freaking exception. Testimony is a clinic of progressive rock.
This album checks off nearly everything I look for in prog. Interesting vocal lines, complex and intricate melodies, leitmotifs (musical themes), and well executed musicianship.
Testimony is just over two hours long and every moment of it is incredible. The main theme of the album is established during the first overture and repeated throughout the album with slight variations.
The vocals also deserve special mention. They are often layered with multiple melodies sung at the same time. This creates an involved and sophisticated series of melodies that remain one of the main things that draws me to Neal's music.
Testimony is so dynamic and interesting throughout its run time that it's hard to ignore how good this album is. I just wish more Christian music would follow this example.
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