1967/ 1976
N.B.: This is a Mike Portnoy compilation. But since 5 songs (to 9) are LTE songs... I think that this compilation is in the right place also in LTE discography.
I bought this promotional compilation because Mike Portnoy is one of my all time preferred drummer. But, I prefer to admit it beyond every possible misunderstanding, The Liquid Tension experiment not pleases me. So this compilation for me have extreme good moment. In the Power Prog Metal/ Classic Metal of "Mad March" (from "Andy West with Rama's "Rama 1") Mike is unique. This isn't a simple performance in a simple song. This is THE drum performing. This is Jazz, Blues, Rock, Heavy Metal... This is a Hell of a performance. Good is also the ballad "Freedom Of Speech" (from "Liquid Tension Experiment") because is a Santana guitar with piano teo driven instrument song. In this song Mike plays a simple partiture. In my opinion another great performing. Good also "Acid Rain" but too cold for me (not Mike!!!). "Endless Enigma" (from "Encores, Legend and Paradox (Tribute to ELP)") is forced song also in original but in this version is too forced. Obviously Mike not helped to not forced this song. Because Mike forced all the song that played. But in positive manner. So "Working Man" and the summarized of "By-Tor And The Snow Dog" (both from "Working Man (Tribute to Rush)" are great. Another great Mike performing in these two Prog (and Heavy Metal) evergreen. But, in general, this promotional compilation confirm that Mike is the new Cozy Powell or Carl Palmer.
Is only a promotional compilation. But Mike Portnoy is Mike Portnoy and for me the Mike's drumming is from Hell!!! If you love Mike Portnoy this is a great compilation. If you love the drums... This is a great compilation. In every case Mike Portnoy is the new God of drums!!!