March of Progress
Threshold · 2012
75 min · 11 tracks · progressive metal
Complex time signatures and soaring melodies intertwine with thought-provoking lyrics, creating a rich progressive metal tapestry.
Top tracks — play these first
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Return of the Thought Police — This track features aggressive instrumentation paired with politically charged lyrics, encapsulating the band's critique of societal issues while showcasing their musical prowess.
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Liberty, Complacency, Dependency — With its elaborate structure and shifting dynamics, this song highlights Threshold's signature blend of melodic hooks and complex arrangements, making it a standout piece on the album.
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Staring at the Sun — This track combines introspective lyrics with anthemic choruses, reflecting personal struggles that resonate deeply while maintaining high-energy instrumentals that drive the narrative forward.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, though it may not significantly reshape the genre.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections, allowing for intricate guitar solos and keyboard interplay.
- The lyrics often explore philosophical themes, with some songs featuring multiple vocal harmonies that enhance the narrative depth.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic progression with peaks
- wave-like pacing for contemplation
- lyrical depth for introspection
- sweeping journeys through sound
- engaging two-halves listening experience
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- March of Progress is Threshold's sixth studio album, released in 2012 after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, Dead Reckoning. This period marked a significant return for the band, showcasing a refreshed lineup and a commitment to evolve their sound within the progressive metal genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Symphony X· Dream Theater· Fates Warning
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Liberty, Complacency, Dependency
The bridge shifts to a more contemplative tone, questioning societal norms and individual choices amidst rising tensions in the music.
This moment marks a departure from the earlier aggressive themes, inviting listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and complicity in social issues.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Ashes 6:51
- 2 Return of the Thought Police 6:09
- 3 Staring at the Sun 4:25
- 4 Liberty, Complacency, Dependency 7:48
- 5 Colophon 6:00
- 6 The Hours 8:15
- 7 That's Why We Came 5:40
- 8 Don't Look Down 8:12
- 9 Coda 5:23
- 10 The Rubicon 10:24
- 11 Divinity 6:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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