ALBUM REVIEW: Universal Migrator Part I & II (reissue) – Ayreon

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Dutch progressive rock multi-instrumentalist Arjen Anthony Lucassen is best known for his popular musical project AYREON, which originated 27 years ago this year. To mark this momentous occasion, AYREON are set to release a dual reissue of two of their most recognisable bodies of work; Universal Migrator Part 1: The Dream Sequencer and Universal Migrator Part 2: Flight Of The Migrator. This reissue features all tracks as heard on the original albums from 2000, but updated with the fresh, modern remix and remaster that you would expect in 2022.

The Universal Migrator records are arguably two of AYREON‘s most recognisable albums in their impressive back catalogue. Both of the albums’ initial success was undoubtedly aided with the help of collaborators IRON MAIDEN‘s Bruce Dickinson, NIGHTWISH‘s Floor Jansen and Edward Reekers from the Dutch progressive rock group KAYAK, just to name a few. Based on a continuation of the concept featured in AYREON‘s debut The Final Experiment, The Dream Sequencer brings us forward in time to the year of 2084, with the final world war wiping out all signs of humanity on the planet. A number of humans manage to escape to Mars following the war, but only one person manages to survive the feat, consequently telling the story of their survival. The modern remix and remaster of both bodies of work just helps to bring them even more to life. Even from the opening title track we are treated to a fresh and slick introduction, adapting this track to fit perfectly in the modern day. Songs like My House On Mars and Carried By The Wind have also been given a lick of musical paint, resulting in a polished end product. It also has to be said that The First Man On Earth has been improved, with brighter sounding instrumentals heard throughout.

The second album in this reissue Flight Of The Migrator follows on from the initial story, with the one remaining human reverting to going back in time, even before the Big Bang. Lucassen‘s keyboard work in Chaos just elevates the whole track to brand new territory, really showing off his talent in the best way possible. With tracks such as Journey On The Waves Of Time, we are treated to some fresh sounding stringed instrumentals, giving this song a completely new flavour as a result. Into The Black Hole is one of our favourites from the entire album though, with Bruce Dickinson‘s vocals sounding even more impactful than the original. You truly feel as though you are taken on a 10-minute musical journey which is just so delightful. As we reach the closer The New Migrator, we are surprised to hear some almost foreboding opening melodies combined with a staggering theatrical performance from Lucassen which just makes the song even more memorable than ever before.

It definitely has to be said that this unexpected remix and remaster of ultimately two of AYREON‘s best albums to date has made these records just unbeatable in every way possible. The overhaul of both bodies of work has shown the true talent of Arjen Anthony Lucassen, especially after being treated to 20 phenomenal and memorable tracks that were all individually hand-crafted by the man himself on top of everything else. This is absolutely fantastic.

Rating: 10/10

Universal Migrator Part I & II - Ayreon

Universal Migrator Part I & II (reissue) is out now via Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group. 

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