PARADISE LOST

I received this album early Monday morning, after pre-ordering it (like Dream Theater's "Systematic Chaos") on F.Y.E.; and immediately, I was introduced to the record's pure and unadulterated joie de vivre. Following their 2002 masterpiece, "The Odyssey," naturally I was hesitant for this album when I read they wouldn't be including another epic to rival their previous one, of the same name as their album; however, from the first thirty seconds of listening to track one, "Oculus Ex Inferni," I was at once brought back to when I first heard "V: The New Mythology Suite," as both opening songs have a similar operatic touch, and I knew I was going to enjoy the all- encompassing complexities of this record.

Speaking of the opening song, I think this track, in comparison to the one found on "V: The New Mythology Suite," brings with it much more depth and several undercurrents than the other, both musically as well as, I suppose, spiritually. Call it "fan-boy" drivel, but I couldn't really care less; I am a Symphony X loyalist. Sue me.

The transition from "Oculus Ex Inferni" to "Set the World on Fire (The Lieof Lies)" was one of their best yet, including, naturally, the transition on "V: The New Mythology Suite," between its prelude and "Evolution (The Grand Design)." From a broad, underdeveloped tone to a heavier, grander-in-scale one can never be unappreciated.

Quite unlike Dream Theater's singles, Symphony X can create terrific songs even in their more-popularly bound ones; as is the case with "The Serpent's Kiss." I would suggest this song to anyone who's familiar with their sound or newcomers unfettered in their style. Further noteworthy tracks include "The Walls of Babylon," which, as well-crafted as it is, can still be pin-pointed to its unambiguous influence; "Seven," which brings with it an overwhelming sensation to rock "the hell" out; and "Revelation (Divus Pennae Ex Tragoedia)," a truly classic piece of music with remarkable lyrics, vocals and, above all, guitar work. Upon first listening, I would say this song gets my prize of best track on the record, but give me another digestion tomorrow and I'm sure that'll either change or, if nothing else, just strengthen my fervor for it.

Naturally, I have negative issues with this album, like anyone else; but right now I have chosen to focus on the lighter beats, rather than anything else, because one, I don't have a lot of time; and two, to find lesser qualities of this album would not only cost me another, perhaps two more, dives into the record, but it would also be too time- consuming, because, as many of fellow Symphony X listeners would be able to tell you, it is far too difficult to find an inferior performance of a record by this group than it is to focus on all else clouding the mind. So, please forgive me and simply take this review as evidence enough to at least give the album a try. that is, presumably-speaking, that you are already familiar with their work. I would, by no means at all, recommend this album for one foreign to this band. For that purpose, either "V: The New Mythology Suite," "Twilight in Olympus" or "The Odyssey" would likely prove a greater opportunity.

Anyway, I suppose that's it. "Paradise Lost" is an album I have greatly looked forward to and, now that it's here, do not plan on putting it aside anytime soon. For one who considers "The Odyssey" their second greatest work yet, beaten only by "V: The New Mythology Suite," I think this album certainly rivals the place of third, which as of yet is reserved for "The Divine Wings of Tragedy." I can't wait to hear these songs live; speaking of which, I cannot wait to see the group on the 27th of July, in Seattle. For those of you vigilant on giving "Paradise Lost" a chance, I pray you take me at my word when I say it's without doubt an album that makes up for a five-year intermission.