Steve, I like a lot of progressive metal as you appear to do but let's be honest - they are all starting to replicate each other. Sonata Arctica for example are great musicians but there are so many Helloweenisms it's hilarious and they've obviously been listening to Rhapsody more than a bit. And then you have a go at Heartland after hearing one single. Very unfair as they are one aor/melodic rock band that have a really distinct sound which has much to do with Chris Ousey's excellent and very distinct voice.
Personally I'm tiring a bit of the progressive metal scene - Rhapsody's, Sonata Arctica's, Angra's etc. If I want to hear this style of music at it's best I'll go back to the bands they've "copied" - Malmsteen and Helloween etc. And these new progressive metal bands have to do something about their lyrics - some of them are downright infantile... Cheers. KAOS FAN...