REEVOLUTION

"ReEvolution" is the 2nd full-length studio album by US, California based Cynthesis. The album was released through Sensory Records in June 2013 and is the second part of a planned conceptual triology of albums. The first was "DeEvolution" from 2011. The lineup on "ReEvolution" comprises three former Zero Hour members (Troy Tipton, Jasun Tipton and Erik Rosvold) and Enchant drummer Sean Flanegan, which was also the lineup that recorded "DeEvolution (2011)". So minus drummer Mike Guy, this is the lineup that recorded the classic "The Towers of Avarice (2001)" album by Zero Hour.

"ReEvolution" pretty much continues where "DeEvolution (2011)" left off. Atmospheric, melodic and occasionally technical progressive metal with a sci-fi lyrical theme and a skilled and passionate lead vocalist in front. The musicianship is on a high level for all involved though, but if you're familiar with Zero Hour (and Enchant for that matter) that should come as no surprise.

"ReEvolution" is packed in a detailed and powerful sound production too and the album is overall just an album that reeks class. The songwriting is focused at lot on atmosphere and several of the tracks (especially the epic, 13:30 minutes long closing track "Release the Deity") are building slowly from atmosperic mellow openings towards epic closing climaxes. Besides "Release the Deity", which is one of the highlights of the album I'd like to mention "Persistence of Visions" as one of the standout tracks on the album.

While "ReEvolution" is not completely devoid of technical playing, it is an album for fans of more atmospheric progressive metal rather than for fans of technically focused progressive metal. It's obviously been the band's goal to go for a more atmospheric sound compared to their technically focused past in Zero Hour. The way they succeed in reaching that goal is rather impressive and "ReEvolution" is overall a great second release in the planned triology. A 4 star (80%) rating is deserved.