This is indeed an epic song, and not one that I found easy to 'get into'. As the epic centrepiece of Ringleader, it appropriately encapsulates the lyrical theme's of the album with it's reflection on age, despair, love and hope, and yet it's mood and musical depth contrasts severely with the prevailing musical tone of the record. It is certainly the most experimental moment on the record.
At first, I wasn't that impressed; I enjoyed the lyrical content right away, which regardless of the in-your-face title and heart of sleeve lines, are wonderful and possess depth. However, at 7 minutes, I was expecting a climax on the scale of "Speedway", but the whole song just continues as one slow burner. This isn't a bad thing once you accept that fact, but I find myself always wanting for somesort of exploding finale to this song, but it builds and builds yet never arrives.
Still, after a few listens, I embraced it. It is a powerful song. It is one of those rare occasions where Moz deviates from the pop-forumla and embraces an experimental edge while retaining all of his identification with old themes and thoughts. This gets an 8 from me, short of a 9 for it's failure to live up to my musical expectations towards the end.