THE ODYSSEY

An excellent step forward for SX. Perhaps if I could I would give an extra half star. Though their previous album, 'The New Mythology Suite', is stronger as a whole, 'The Odyssey' showcases some definate improvements in their songwriting and playing ability. It's hard not to give this album 5 stars but I do find when listening to it from beginning to end it falls a little short on flavor. I personally like to see more diversity in an album to keep the music interesting from beginning to end. However, one cannot over look the true brilliance of some of the individual tracks that make this album an excellent buy. The amazing epic title track ' The Odyssey' alone is worth the purchase. This 24 min masterpiece is the the best output buy SX to date. It beautifully captures every aspect of the band and simply demands your attention and recognition. Other notable tracks would include Inferno(Unleash the Fire), King of Terrors, and Awakenings. The Accolade II is also a good track that adds a little emotion to the enslaught of metal fury that surrounds it. All in all 'The Odyssey' is an exceptional prog metal album with a sound that's explosive, crunchy and energetic. Buy it!