The Source cover

The Source

Ayreon · 2017

88 min · 17 tracks · progressive metal · rock opera

A sprawling rock opera that merges progressive metal with narrative-driven storytelling in a futuristic setting.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic journey with varied intensity immersive narrative-driven storytelling thought-provoking themes of existence
Context
Released on April 28, 2017, 'The Source' is Ayreon's ninth studio album and marks a continuation of Arjen Lucassen's ambitious rock opera series. Following the success of 'The Theory of Everything' (2013), this album further solidifies his reputation for complex musical narratives and innovative collaborations.
If you like
progressive metal, rock opera

The Source is an album by Ayreon, released in 2017. A sprawling rock opera that merges progressive metal with narrative-driven storytelling in a futuristic setting. The album was well-received, charting in several countries including reaching No. 1 on the Dutch Albums Chart. It also featured an impressive lineup of guest musicians, enhancing its appeal within the progressive metal community and showcasing Ayreon's influential role in the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Source sound like?

A sprawling rock opera that merges progressive metal with narrative-driven storytelling in a futuristic setting. Rooted in progressive metal and rock opera.

What makes The Source by Ayreon notable?

The album was well-received, charting in several countries including reaching No. 1 on the Dutch Albums Chart. It also featured an impressive lineup of guest musicians, enhancing its appeal within the progressive metal community and showcasing Ayreon's influential role in the genre. Released on April 28, 2017, 'The Source' is Ayreon's ninth studio album and marks a continuation of Arjen Lucassen's ambitious rock opera series. Following the success of 'The Theory of Everything' (2013), this album further solidifies his reputation for complex musical narratives and innovative collaborations.

Who is The Source for?

The Source works well if you're into dynamic journey with varied intensity, immersive narrative-driven storytelling and thought-provoking themes of existence.

How many songs are on The Source?

The Source has 17 tracks, running approximately 88 minutes.

Tracklist

17 tracks·88:40

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Day That the World Breaks Down Standout 12:31
  • 2 Sea of Machines 5:09
  • 3 Everybody Dies Standout 4:43
  • 4 Star of Sirrah 7:04
  • 5 All That Was 3:36
  • 6 Run! Apocalypse! Run! Standout 4:53
  • 7 Condemned to Live 6:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Aquatic Race 6:44
  • 2 The Dream Dissolves 6:11
  • 3 Deathcry of a Race 4:43
  • 4 Into the Ocean 4:53
  • 5 Bay of Dreams 4:24
  • 6 Planet Y Is Alive! 6:02
  • 7 The Source Will Flow 4:13
  • 8 Journey to Forever 3:20
  • 9 The Human Compulsion 2:15
  • 10 March of the Machines 1:39

Release Date

April 28, 2017

Genre

progressive metal, rock opera

More albums in rock opera

Artist Origin

Netherlands

Runtime

88 min 40 sec