UMUR
"Today´s Report" is the debut full-length studio album by Swedish progressive rock/metal act A.C.T. The album was released through MTM Music in 1999.
The music on the album is heavy progressive rock with an occasional metal edge. The compositions are very sophisticated and melodic but not necessarily complex. There is an emphasis on catchiness rather than on techncial playing. It shouldn´t be misunderstood though as A.C.T are very accomplished musicians and they occasionally play some really technically challenging parts. The high pitched lead vocals by Herman Saming, the harmony vocals and choirs are very impressive too and sometimes remind me of the high quality vocal work of Queen. When A.C.T are most heavy and progressive they remind me of early Dream Theater.
Standout tracks are "Abandoned World", "Waltz With Mother Nature", "Today's Report" (with the spoken catastrophic words), "Welcome" (damn catchy that one) and of course the "Personalities" suite which is brilliant to my ears.
The only issue I have with "Today´s Report", is that the sound production could have been sligthly better, but it´s nothing too serious and the excellent musicianship and adventurous songwriting more than make up for it. A 3.5 - 4 star (75%) rating is deserved.