Is Metamorpheus a good place to start with Steve Hackett?

Yes, Metamorpheus is recommended as a starting point for new Steve Hackett listeners. A contemplative blend of progressive rock and orchestral textures, evoking themes of memory and transformation. Released in 2005, Metamorpheus is Steve Hackett's first album after his departure from the more commercially oriented music of the late '90s. Following a series of solo projects, this album showcases his return to thematic storytelling through music, reflecting on mythology and personal experience. It marks a continued evolution in Hackett's style, integrating classical influences with his progressive rock roots.

Who is Metamorpheus for?

Metamorpheus works well if you're into steady progression with emotional peaks, ethereal melodies for reflective moments and nature-inspired themes for tranquility.

How many songs are on Metamorpheus?

Metamorpheus has 15 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Metamorpheus

Steve Hackett · 2005

57 min · 15 tracks · progressive rock

A contemplative blend of progressive rock and orchestral textures, evoking themes of memory and transformation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Song to Nature Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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That Vast Life — This lengthy track serves as the centerpiece of the album, featuring intricate guitar work and expansive themes that encapsulate the album's exploration of existence and memory.
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Eurydice Taken — In this brief yet poignant piece, the somber tones reflect on loss and longing, perfectly capturing the emotional weight of the Orpheus myth.
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Under the World ~ Orpheus Looks Back — This track combines haunting melodies with lyrical reflections on regret and nostalgia, embodying the overarching theme of transformation found throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

Metamorpheus blends progressive rock with orchestral textures, showcasing thematic depth and strong craftsmanship.

What we noticed

The album features lengthy tracks, with several exceeding six minutes, allowing for extended musical exploration.
Each track incorporates orchestral elements alongside traditional rock instrumentation, creating a layered sound.
Themes of Greek mythology are woven into the lyrics, with narrative arcs that connect multiple songs.
The final track serves as a reflective conclusion, revisiting motifs from earlier pieces and providing a sense of closure.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. 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

steady progression with emotional peaks
ethereal melodies for reflective moments
nature-inspired themes for tranquility
immersive journey through mythology

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
seek standalone hits over cohesion

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases ambitious composition and depth, marking a notable artistic phase.
Themes: Orphic myth· philosophical reflections· serene soundscapes
Career context: Released in 2005, Metamorpheus is Steve Hackett's first album after his departure from the more commercially oriented music of the late '90s. Following a series of solo projects, this album showcases his return to thematic storytelling through music, reflecting on mythology and personal experience. It marks a continued evolution in Hackett's style, integrating classical influences with his progressive rock roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Camel· Mike Oldfield· Genesis