Devin Townsend Project
Ocean Machine
Live at the Ancient Roman Theatre Plovdiv

Devin Townsend and his project celebrated that it was twenty years since his album Ocean Machine was released during a special show in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. They did it by playing a selection of favourite songs along with a symphony orchestra, then after a short break they took on the Ocean Machine album – for which they had original bassist called Squid being part of the live act, for the first time ever according to what Devin said when introducing the guy. As this massive show wasn’t enough, it was also recorded at an Ancient Roman Theatre to have this massive setting to go with the occasion. The only thing not up to the occasion is the selection of clothes for the band; why not wear something a bit more interesting than jeans and t-shirt for such a special occasion? But what about it then, is it worth the small fortune it costs to buy the deluxe-release with everything included?

Edgy, progressive, energetic, and many other things that we have already written in numerous reviews can be used to describe Devin’s music. The selection spans the entire catalogue and can be described as a good live set, the Ocean Machine part is a good representation of the album. I think the part played with the symphony orchestra is very strong, the orchestra adds depth and power to the songs, giving them new life. But I still think that the Ocean Machine performance is better, more interesting, and more powerful. The performances of the band members are great all around and the production is really strong as well, this is a well-sounding live album and it has great variation, and not too much pointless talking to the audience.

Video-wise I think this album is well filmed, the cutting is quite good as well, nothing outstanding or revolutionary but very solid. The great setting, which adds power to the spectacle, also helps it and I can imagine that it was a great experience to be there. A special show well documented, that can be one conclusion over the video material. The deluxe release also gets a good documentary just to add to the great stuff you get for the small fortune required to buy it. And I recommend that you look into that deluxe release as it has most to offer from every aspect.

In short, the answer is yes. And I think that the artbook, deluxe edition is the one to get. It is a great addition to any fan of this project and this Devin Townsend fellow, but also to the one who just enjoys great music because that’s what you get here, great music. And you can add to that great video if you want to watch that some time. I don’t think there are any real weaknesses to write about, sure there are small things as this is a live release and therefore it is bound to have its flaws that can’t be rectified but there is nothing really bothersome to point out. Other than the fact that they don’t dress well for the special occasion, but it doesn’t really detract from the greatness of the material.

Not to miss if you are a fan of Devin Townsend, and I doubt you want to miss it if you enjoy the great adventures of the proggier side of the music world. Yeah, I think that this album by Devin Townsend and his project is well worth the small fortune it costs to buy the deluxe edition. I tip my hat to a great artist.

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