The Whirlwind cover

The Whirlwind

Transatlantic · 2009

237 min · 21 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling progressive rock epic that intertwines intricate musicianship with soaring melodies and thematic storytelling.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with peaks
  • wave-like pacing throughout
  • thematic storytelling experience
  • extended listening for immersion
  • cathartic crescendos and releases

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer short, standalone tracks
  • seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2009, 'The Whirlwind' is the third studio album by Transatlantic, marking a significant return after a six-year hiatus since their previous release, 'Bridge Across Forever.' This album features a reformed lineup with the introduction of drummer Mike Portnoy, showcasing their commitment to complex arrangements and musical exploration at a time when progressive rock was experiencing a resurgence.
Stylistic neighbors
Dream Theater· Symphony X· Yes

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 The Whirlwind: I. Overture / Whirlwind 9:53
  • 2 The Whirlwind: II. The Wind Blew Them All Away 6:09
  • 3 The Whirlwind: III. On the Prowl 6:02
  • 4 The Whirlwind: IV. A Man Can Feel 6:35
  • 5 The Whirlwind: V. Out of the Night 4:22
  • 6 The Whirlwind: VI. Rose Colored Glasses 7:53
  • 7 The Whirlwind: VII. Evermore 4:10
  • 8 The Whirlwind: VIII. Set Us Free 5:03
  • 9 The Whirlwind: IX. Lay Down Your Life 5:10
  • 10 The Whirlwind: X. Pieces of Heaven 2:17
  • 11 The Whirlwind: XI. Is It Really Happening? 8:11
  • 12 The Whirlwind: XII. Dancing With Eternal Glory / Whirlwind (reprise) 12:03

Disc 2

  • 1 Spinning 9:58
  • 2 Lenny Johnson 4:20
  • 3 For Such a Time 5:22
  • 4 Lending a Hand 8:43
  • 5 The Return of the Giant Hogweed 8:26
  • 6 A Salty Dog 4:59
  • 7 I Need You 4:39
  • 8 Soul Sacrifice 8:38

Disc 3

  • 1 The Making of The Whirlwind 1:44:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata