Review of The Lachesis Passage

Some would call it "audio drama", others "rock opera". Me, I call it an excellent way to pass the time on a long car drive. When jaunting to a Con or such, this is an ideal drama to play. It gets you into a heroic mood, and the time just zooms by. Indeed, if your trip is less than 3 hours, you might want to overshoot your destination just so you can hear how the story ends.

This 3-CD set brings back the feel of radio dramas and 70s rock simulataneously, leading to an interesting and engrossing mix of influences. Alas, like most fantasy, you won't find out how the entire saga ends quite yet-- this set is just the first part.

Not surprisingly, the young male lead does resemble a young Skywalker-- likeable, though a bit whiny. And a bit dim, especially in romantic matters. But that's okay, his heart is good, and his female counterpart definitely has enough sense to keep things moving. Evil, of course, does seem to start out with all the advantages-- and all the best lines. Indeed, it's classic radio drama here, and I kept having flashbacks to such greats as Wakeman's "Tales of King Arthur..." and other keyboard standards.

Wirehaired Productions has a very strong 70s feel to the music, and the vocalist in particular that characteristic soulful shrieking down pat. With this type of music, either it clicks with you or it doesn't, so it's worth popping by their site for some samples.

Lachesis is, of course, one of the 3 Fates-- she is the one that determines the length of your lifetime. The name was chosen as a parallel for the tale being weaved-- and be warned, the Lachesis Passage is not yet over. There will be more of this highly unique product. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some more driving to do.

Style: 3 (Average)
Substance: 3 (Average)