OSI was formulated as a progressive rock supergroup by ex-Dream Theater keyboardist Kevin Moore and Jim Matheos of Fates Warning. The group’s self-titled debut album, which featured progressive metal behemoth Mike Portnoy on drums and acclaimed producer Steven Wilson at the boards, was very much the sum of its parts. Elements of Dream Theater, Moore’s solo work, and progressive rock/metal were all fused to create an addictive and interesting album. The project was only intended as a one-off, with no future releases planned. However, once Moore and Matheos realized they both had gaps in their schedule, a follow-up was recorded.
Free took the sound of OSI in a totally different direction, abandoning the progressive metal influences and instead focusing on a blend of alternative metal and electronic music. The result is a highly atmospheric rock album that combines edgy guitar riffs, electronic soundscapes, and Moore’s tired and droning voice to create something truly unique and special.
“Go” is the third track on the album, and begins in a subdued and melancholic mood. Like most of the project’s songs, the lyrics tend to deal with the depressing side of relationships. However, unlike groups with similar lyrical themes (such as Nine Inch Nails), Moore’s lyrics give off an air of indifference instead of angst. Electronic sounds dominate the beginning of the song, and are joined by acoustic guitar accompaniment.
Moore finishes the verse first by saying “And now I’ve hurt someone,” but in the second verse, after some time has passed, he continues by saying “now I’m having fun.” Although it seems his actions have caused hurt in someone, it doesn’t seem to bother him at all and he is capable of blocking it out and continuing his life. This theme is continued in the chorus, where he states that once he falls asleep, he “will let this go.” The depressing nature of the music suggests that Moore’s lyrics are simply understatement, and although he believes he will be able to “let it go,” something is deeply troubling him.
However, about halfway through the song, after Moore has finished singing, there is a change in tone. A triumphant sounding synth line comes out of nowhere that changes the entire mood of the song. Suddenly the listener is optimistic about the future instead of depressed, and it seems that the subject of the song was indeed able to “let it go.” By simply adding this one musical line, OSI manages to tell a story in its song, by showing the progression of someone who is first depressed but manages to move on past the incident.
The triumphant sound continues for a while, before Moore’s voice comes back in to sing the first verses and chorus of the song again. However, knowing that the subject of the song is successful in their quest to “let it go,” this reprisal is nowhere near as bleak as when it is first sung.
“Go” is an interesting look at how even the simplest changes in structure, or the addition of just one musical element can drastically change the course of a song. Moore and Matheos take the listener on a journey of acceptance and revival, all within the confines of a 4 minute song. It’s a great song from a great musical group. Listen to the song below and feel free to discuss “Go”, OSI, or anything else with me in the comments section!
