SIRIUS B

The Grand Masters of Progressive Speed Symphonic Metal released two albums in 2004 of truly Epic proportions. I already submitted a review of Limuria, so I'm going to concentrate here on Sirius B which contains some of the most complex musical compositions that I had the pleasure of hearing in 2004. The technical proficiency of the band and the overall quality of the music is what makes this album one of my favorites of 2004. Yes, I prefer this one over Limuria.

When you consider the fact that it took nine months of recording sessions to put both Limuria and Sirius B together, just imagine the discipline and the dedication that is required to accomplish something like that, then like me, you will learn to admire the music of Therion. All one can really do at the end of the day is sit down and listen! Yes folks, this band creates the kind of music that literally takes you on a musical journey.

With classically trained opera singers (both female and male lead vocals) and lets not forget the choirs, and with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra recording along side the band, this all translates into one amazing classically influenced progressive metal album.

The mood of this album follows the same pattern as Limuria in that it begins up-beat, slows down to a more melancholic mood halfway through only to pick things up again towards the end.

A few recommended highlights:

Sirius B opens with "Blood of Kingu," and we immediately find ourselves in an epic movie soundtrack surrounding, the music is heavy, fast and very aggressive and the singing is urgent. A very good start!

"Son of the Sun" is another excellent track, first reminded me of Nightwish with its very catchy music and melodies.

On "Voyage Of Gurdjieff (The Fourth Way)" the band embarks on a six minute bombastic peddle to the metal power ride, their fastest and most ambitious song in recent years.

It's the dynamics and depth of the music and the amazing combination of darkness and beauty that attracts me to Therion's music. I'm running out of interesting things to say. It's all so very good. Therion has crafted an impressive piece of work folks, an album full of music that must be heard to be believed...