 SYMPHONY
X
The Odyssey
SPV / Inside Out Records 2003
www.symphonyx.com
What’s the 4-1-1?
There's an old metal "curse" out there called, "Big in Europe,
big in Japan Syndrome". Unfortunately, Symphony X are victims
of this affliction (and their from New Jersey, go figure!). That
may all
change
with the release of the groups 8 track magnum opus, The Odyssey.
Symphony X got their big break back in 1994 when they released their eponymous
self-titled debut. After having such a huge response, The Damnation Game
was released eight months later. It wasn't until 1996's The Divine Wings
of Tragedy that Symphony X became an international sensation. They were dubbed "The
Best Progressive Power Metal Band in the World" later that year. After
several line up changes and three more releases, Symphony X are still delivering
their trademark mix of sweeping guitar melodies, lush song writing, and classically-influenced
heavy metal music.
Genre
Power metal / hard rock / theatrical
The Good
On their latest release, Symphony X pushes heavier guitar riffs and aggressive
vocals to the forefront. "Inferno" begins with a fiery guitar
solo that boggles the mind with its speed and accuracy. A feat that's repeated
many times throughout the album. Allen's vocals are aggressive in their
delivery, but never lose their melodic dexterity. The vocals and guitar
work are equally as punishing on "Wicked" and "Incantations
of the Apprentice." Perhaps the most lethal track on the disc is "King
of Terrors", which is based on the Edgar Allen Poe classic "The
Pit and the Pendulum." For those who think that the group has abandoned
their progressive roots for a heavier sound, fear not. "Accolade II" showcases
the epic production and vivid expression that Symphony X are known for.
Of course it's the centerpiece of the album that steals the show. "The
Odyssey" is a brilliant, twenty-four minute, progressive metal masterpiece
that takes the listener on a musical journey through Symphony X's interpretation
of Homer's epic poem (high school literature). The track is broken into seven
chapters that tell the tale of Odysseus' harrowing post-Trojan journey back
home. The story is played out in both lyrical and instrumental forms. Influenced
by classical movie scores, "Odysseus' Theme / Overture" begins
our story. The group relates to the original Greek tale with chapters about
the Cyclopse ("The Eye"), temptations of the Sirens' song ("Sirens),
Odysseus' conquest of Circe ("Circe - Daughter of the Sun"), a
dangerous ocean journey ("Scylla and Charybdis"), and finally our
hero's return home with violent results ("The Fate of the Suitors /
Champion of Ithica").
The Bad
Nothing.
The Verdict
One of the best metal albums of the year! The combination of sharp melodic
vocals, heavy guitar tones, over the top arrangements, and epic story telling
make The Odyssey a cut above the rest. Symphony X are carrying the torch
of old school metal as they display a flair for furious guitar shredding
and conceptual story telling. Don't think that means their music is outdated.
With the added progressive elements, the group makes classic metal sound
fresh. It can be a little confusing figuring where the next chapter begins
on "The Odyssey", but I won't hold it against them.
Did you know?
The nickname of Keyboardist Michael Pinnella is "Garlic Trumpetman from
Hell". When the band was asked what it meant, the answer given was, "There
are things that only the band and the crew members should know”
Rating:  out
of 5
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--George Dionne |
