Symphony X-V: The New Mythology Suite (Metal Blade) 2000Symphony X
Symphony X-V: The New Mythology Suite (Metal Blade) 2000
1. "Prelude" -instrumental (1:07)
2. "Evolution (The Grand Design)" (5:20)
3. "Fallen" (5:51)
4. "Transcendence (Segue)" (:38)
5. "Communion and the Oracle" (7:45)
6. "The Bird-Serpent War/Cataclysm" (4:02)
7. "On the Breath of Poseidon (Segue)" (3:01)
8. "Egypt" (7:04)
9. "The Death of Balance/Lacrymosa" (3:42)
10. "Absence of Light" (4:58)
11. "A Fool's Paradise" (5:48)
12. "Rediscovery (Segue)" (1:24)
13. "Rediscovery, Pt. 2: The New Mythology" (12:01)
I had read some great things about this band so I checked out the AMG review of this disc before purchasing it and decided to give them a try. AMG stated "Perhaps no other guitarists in the metal genre has been as influenced by Yngwie Malmsteen as Symphony X leader Michael Romeo. That has proved to be both a blessing and a curse for this gifted guitarist. His chops are certainly comparable, but his sound and style are often identical to his idol. Therein lies the problem with this recording and, for that matter, most of the post-Malmsteen shredders." What a crock! While the band does have some Yngwie-like technical prowess, the music is NOTHING like Yngwie. Symphony X are much more complex combining classical elements with sweeping melodies and complex songwriting to created epic numbers that far outweigh Ynqwie's compositions. While I like Yngwie, it has always been my complaint that many of his songs are just exercises, or excuses, for Yngwie to solo over. This is simply not the case for these guys. Also I must make mention of Russell Allen's vocals. I was expecting some helium high prog-metal vocalist, but instead Allen's vox are more in line with some of the greats from the 70's, occasionally reminding me of Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow/Deep Purple) and on occasion Ian Gillan (which if you know me, this is the ultimate compliment.) Picked up this cd for a mere $5.99.