|
: :
The Odyssey : :
Quite often, when a talented and successful band creates and releases a truly
exceptional piece, i.e; "their masterpiece", (and I'm sure that many fans would
agree that this would be Symphony X's epic work "V The New Mythology Suite"), the
question arises, "Where do they go from here?". Unfortunately, for some artists,
following an amazing collection of music, succeeding studio efforts may not have the
appeal or spark, which solidifies longevity and on-going success. It has been a
common curse to many talented artists and bands. However, Symphony X is an
exception, and they prove it with their new CD "The Odyssey". The collective talents
of the players, the devoted loyalty of their firmly established fan base, and the
circumstances surrounding their management situation have placed this band in a
position to firmly establish a presence within the progressive musical genre that
they deserve. "The Odyssey", which is their sixth and highly anticipated studio
release, is an incredible collection of songs that seems to portray just what this
band is about with a few new and unexpected variations in style.
 For
those who are not yet familiar with this band....Symphony X, a five member band from
New Jersey, USA, has been around for about 10 years. Their music is a esoteric blend
of guitar driven progressive metal, symphonic prog, and melodic rock. InsideOut
America has recently signed them to their roster, and are aggressively attempting to
optimize their exposure through good professional management, as well as releasing
the band's back catalog of music. The new CD's diverse selection of songs is the
perfect vehicle to present to the world the "Symphony X Experience". I believe this
release, along with their first real American tour (with Germany's Blind Guardian),
and a European tour (with Stratovarius), will quickly boost their reputation and
pull in many new fans....a long time coming. Personally, I have never found a band
that has excited me more than Symphony X. My admiration and respect for these
musicians is unprecedented.
On to my
review of "The Odyssey"......
Overall, the songs present a heavier prog-metal SymX than we have been accustomed
to, especially after "V". Their heavier style in "Divine Wings of Tragedy" CD from
1996 would be the closest to compare with this new music. But it is all fresh and
new. The players have truly established their unique identity. It is a raw, highly
technical guitar / vocal driven collection of songs that leave you with a smile and
a gasp for air after the first listen. Five songs, "Inferno (Unleash the Fire)",
"Wicked", "Incantations of the Apprentice", "King of Terrors" and "The Turning" are
tight, aggressive prog-metal pieces which feature Michael Romeo's flawless catchy
guitar riffs, and raw forceful vocals from Russell Allen, which present this singer
in absolute incredible and versatile range. Unbridled progressive metal at it's
finest with intense and intelligent lyrics, every song is enjoyable. "Accolade II"
is a continuation of the original "Accolade" from their DWOT CD with the same beauty
and emotion as the first. Within "Awakenings", a beautiful and melodic 8 minute
song, we can clearly hear much of the music which has influenced these musicians and
their overall style. This song shows us yet another more subtle and smooth vocal
style from Russ. The 24-minute title track, "The Odyssey" is the last song on the
CD. It begins with several minutes of symphonic music which reminds me of a movie
soundtrack, followed by a great acoustic guitar/vocal piece which set the emotion
for Homer's "Odyssey" story as a musical journey in the unique Symphony X style.
Jason Rullo's drumming, Michael Lepond's intricate bass, and Michael Pinnella's
fantastic keyboard style also shine throughout this entire CD. This is the first CD
that the band had complete control over all arrangement, pre-production, and
recording in guitarist Michael Romeo's studio. A personalized, tight and balanced
mix is an evident result. A limited edition "The Odyssey" is also produced, which
will offer a modified CD package and one extra song, "Masquerade 98", which was
previously included on the (now out of print) "Prelude to the Millennium" CD.
We
cannot be disappointed by Symphony X, only further amazed at what these fine
musicians continue to deliver. In spite of their past lack of exposure in the
States, their fans are the most devoted and loyal fans you would ever find. Symphony
X's music is created for the fans who appreciate, respect, and enjoy their music.
Not just a packaged product, this is for real, and it's well known to all; a golden
opportunity to indulge in this precious gift called "Symphony X". I am glad that
they finally have the means to get their music to many more people, and commend
InsideOut on their determination to effectively promote them. "The Odyssey" is
written and produced in a way that will thrill many who are not even familiar with
progressive, metal, symphonic, or any musical variation within these genres, to this
style of music...a vehicle, so to speak.
My sincere thanks to the band, InsideOut Music (you are fortunate to have them!),
and for George to have offered me this opportunity to review the new CD.
Buy "The Odyssey". I cannot rate this CD
less than a perfect 10.
Reviewed By: Stu Barnhart
Review Date: 10/28/02
:: Honors ::
Album of the month for December
Visit the artist website:
Symphony X
:: DISCOGRAPHY ::
Symphony X - 1994
The Damnation Game - 1995
The Divine Wings Of Tragedy - 1996
Twilight In Olympus - 1998
Prelude To The Millennium - 1998
V: The New Mythology Suite
- 2000
Live on the Edge of Forever - 2001
The Odyssey - 2002
You can purchase this CD from
 |
