SeaOfTranquility.org recently spoke with AYREON mastermind Arjen Lucassen about his new album, 01011101. The following is an excerpt from the interview:

SoT: How do you evaluate The Human Equation four years after its release?

Arjen: "I'm very happy with the story and most of the songs, and especially the singers were great, maybe the best so far. I think most of my choices were quite unique and personal. I'm not entirely happy with the production though. The drums sound a little thin and the vocals are a bit too loud. The new album sounds better."

SoT: Are you pleased with the reaction your new album has gotten so far?

Arjen: "Way above expectations. Because this album was conceived in a very dark period I didn't expect the reactions to be that good. It's also my first album that has entered CD charts in no less than 13 countries."

SoT: How do you think the new disc compares to The Human Equation?

Arjen: "It's too early to tell. I can't be objective yet. The reactions to The Human Equation were extremely good, it was hard to live up to the expectations of the people this time. I guess the new album is more of a grower than The Human Equation is, probably because of the many singers. I think 01 is a bit heavier, and the story is more cryptic."

SoT: Would you mind talking a bit about your new project? What's it going to sound like and who will you be working with?

Arjen: "It's not a metal album, although each song has some pretty heavy parts. There will be many long songs, around 10 minutes each. I will try to work with just one singer this time. I have a list of about 10 singers but I have not chosen one yet. It will depend on the finished material, which voice will fit the songs the best."

Go to this location for the complete interview.