The Neal Morse band performing live in Israel for the first time, and who knows if it will be the only time. Of course I am going to be there. Booked for one Israel's newest and greatest venues, Reading 3, I felt thrilled for the chance given to me to catch two of my musical heroes, Neil Morse and Mike Portnoy. After following most of his career and ventures, I came to the distinct notion that Morse is probably one of the most talented musicians that ever crossed Rock music and its progression.

At around 21:30, the support act of the local DISTORTED HARMONY. Basically, this is a Progressive Rock / Metal band that has been highly acclaimed over the years within the local scene. Their performance was solid, can't deem it to be overwhelming. I found them to be in the right direction with their music, however, I couldn't escape the fact that they crucially need to work on their live showcase while inducing their setlist with just a little bit a dosage of easy listening tunes.

Coming up around 22:15, the light engineer turned the lights off. Morse and crew emerged on stage and with an instant, opened with the self-titled track of latest album, "Momentum". It was so fantastic, the band sounded well-tuned, tight as it can be. Eric Gillette, the lead guitarist, played Paul Gilbert's solo note by note proving his proficiency and great guitaring skills. No doubt, that this is an amazing player. Continuing with "Weathering Sky" then followed by the "Author Of Confusion" epos. Once again I had the chance to enjoy Morse's guitar skills, keyboards playing and awesome singing. Talk about a multi-talent and right up there performing before you. Putting aside the quality of the band, probably the fund part for me was noticing how much fun these guys have playing this material and the strong chemistry between the players on stage. The band continued with "Thoughts Pt. 5" was next with yet another stellar performance, Morse handled the tough vocal parts with a fine measure of expertise.

All throughout the show, Morse proved himself to be a master musician, being part of SPOCK'S BEARD, TRANSATLANTIC ORCHESTRA and his solo project. His band isn't just there to provide support or plainly jam with him. They are an integral part of the act and it was emphasized all over the setlist, especially on a few solo maneuvers. Randy George and Mike Portnoy are an amazing rhythm section, Portnoy has so much groove in his playing and feel that it's just music to the ears, and George even did an amazing bass solo that just dropped my jaw. Bill Hubauer handling the Keyboards, backing up Morse while he handled the guitars, a lot of fun to watch him at his craft, and he also turned out to be a great backup vocalist.

Featured on their show, Morse and crew excited the house by playing "Testimony 1 Suite" and "Question Mark Suite", both in full, that were excellently done. Also on the fixture was a special TRANSATLANTIC ORCHESTRA's "We All Need Some Light" with Morse on acoustic guitar. The show was slowly closed with SPOCK'S BEARD cover of "Wind At My Back" heading towards the encore. "Sing It High" where Morse jammed with the band and the crowd, it was a tremendous fun. Then finally the band closed the evening with the message from above of "King Jesus".

Summarizing this evening, it was an amazing show; it was like watching the live performance of a legend preaching its message. Though I didn't need any further proof, Morse, Portnoy and the rest of the band showed their professionalism. As for the venue, the production was of high quality as well the sound and even the lighting.

I wish to thank Progstage Productions for providing me (on behalf of Metal Temple) with the opportunity of covering the show and of course special thanks for Morse and crew for an amazing night of artistic Rock.